The Crossmaglen Rangers organising committee responsible for hosting Friday night’s Drugs Awareness meeting in the Ranger’s Hall have been congratulated on a hugely successful and informative event. Substance abuse misuse specialist, Dr.Hugh Gallagher and Alan, a recovering drug addict from Dublin addressed a packed hall of community members, youth workers and local political representatives, all keen to support the initiative to tackle the spiralling problem of drug and substance abuse in the local community.
Slieve Gullion Area Sinn Féin Councillor Terry Hearty, praised all those involved in hosting the hugely important public meeting, which he said was “delivered in a responsible, sensitive and informative manner.”
“We, as a community, will work together to highlight the dangers of drug and substance abuse and we must also be mindful of knowing where help and support is available for anyone who gets caught up in the deadly cycle of abuse,” he added.
His colleague, Newry & Armagh Sinn Féin election candidate Megan Fearon also congratulated Crossmaglen Rangers Club for facilitating the event and she commended the community “for coming together to take steps to educate themselves in issues relating to the challenges of drug abuse and to help prevent the growth of this deadly problem.” Pledging her party’s backing, Ms Fearon assured the community that she and her colleagues were on hand to give any practical help or support “to move forward tackling this problem together.”
Speaking after Friday’s meeting, SDLP election candidate Justin McNulty, described the contribution made by recovering addict, Alan, as “extremely powerful” and he underlined the importance of continuing to raise awareness about drug abuse and the risks involved.
“With our young people being particularly vulnerable, it’s awareness evenings like this that help to arm them with the facts to ensure that they make the right decisions and to recognise and help others who may need assistance,” said Mr McNulty.
“Well done to the organisers for bringing together this important event.”