Limerick drugs project looks for its 'Northstar'
Council to enter talks with group in hope to find it a full-time premises
LIMERICK City and County Council are to work with staff of a drugs intervention service to ensure they have a permanent home.
The Northstar Family Support Project was established in 2010 in response to the growing need for support for families dealing with substance misuse.
Initially aimed at northside families, it has since moved into the city centre, where it has a base at John’s Street.
This is privately rented and Fianna Fail councillor Catherine Slattery, who is a director of the service, wants the council to step in to provide one of its own buildings for staff.
This will help reduce the costs they face.
She has secured the agreement of council bosses to help.
It came after a notice of motion was passed at this month’s metropolitan district meeting.
“We as a council must support this vital service and provide them with a permanent home. Unfortunately, addiction is so common and every family member has an addiction of some sort,” she said.
Cllr Slattery outlined the impact any kind of addiction can have on families across the city.
“Addiction to alcoholism or drugs can destroy families and the person who is dealing with the addict also needs support. I am calling on council and all councillors here today to support my motion as the Northstar Family Support Project in Limerick needs a permanent home in Limerick to continue the wonderful work they do,” she said.
Seconded by her party colleague Joe Pond, Cllr Slattery’s motion won cross-party support.
Labour’s Conor Sheehan, Sinn Fein’s Sharon Benson, Independent Frankie Daly and Shane Hickey-O’Mara of the Social Democrats all spoke in favour, as did Kieran O’Hanlon of Fianna Fail.
In a written reply to her motion, council administrative officer Padraig Malone confirmed talks will commence.
“Limerick City and County Council will arrange to engage with the Northstar Family Suport Project in order to evaluate their needs and ascertain how council might be in a position to help with a permanent premises,” he stated.
The service is supported by the HSE and the Mid-West Drugs and Alcohol Forum.