'Young People and Drugs in the Community'

kilkenny | miscellaneous | news report Tuesday June 20, 2006 17:45 by Community Activist - Ógra Shinn Féin

Last Saturday 17 June, Cumann Ógra Shinn Féin Proinsias Ó Riain, Ceatharlach / Cill Choinnigh, held a public meeting in Kilkenny city. The aim of the meeting entitled, "Young People and Drugs in the Community" was to raise public awareness regarding the increasing drug problem in our communities, especially in the context of young people, whom Ógra Shinn Féin represent.

Drugs Out - Kids About!

Despite the sunny weather outside, the event was well attended by members of the public from both Kilkenny and Carlow. The meeting, chaired by Ógra Shinn Féin local organiser Peadar de Bluit, was addressed by, Kathleen Funchion - Sinn Féin candidate for Carlow / Kilkenny in the forthcoming General Election, Sinn Féin T.D. from Dublin South West, Seán Crowe, and community activist Peter Smith also from Dublin. While Kathleen outlined Sinn Féin's policy regarding drugs to those present, Seán and Peter shared their experiences from past and present regarding community activism against organised drug-dealing. A question-and-answer session followed where the audience's interest in the subject of the day was clear to be seen. Ógra Shinn Féin Ceatharlach / Cill Choinnigh now intend to follow up on the success of the meeting with a series of community based events in order to heighten awareness in the area on this very important issue.