Positive reaction as drugs awareness initiative rolled out Kilkenny

Sporting stars Conor Harris and Ken Egan spoke to a packed hall in Clara last week on the dangers of addiction and the importance of raising awareness around substance abuse.

The talk was the latest in a series of events promoting health and wellbeing and raising awareness around the pitfalls of drug use and the collateral damage that people will suffer if they get involved in drugs. 

Kenneth  Egan is an Irish politician and amateur boxer from Clondalkin, Dublin who is best known for winning a silver medal in the final of the 81 kg, Light-Heavyweight boxing final at the 2008 Olympics.

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Conor Harris is a former Kildare footballler and a recovering drug addict. Conor, who  is now more than three  years sober  shared his story and spoke of his enduring strength and hope. Mr Harris told the member of his own terrifying experience when his family was forced out of their home on Christmas Eve due to threats over a drugs debt that he had incurred.

 Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Peter Mc Connon also spoke  at the meeting.

“The aim is to create awareness around drugs and to educate people of the pitfalls that can spiral out of control to the point where there is no way of coming back. If we can save one person from one club each year then this initiative will have been a huge success.”

“The simple message is that drugs ruin lives,” he added.

Inspector Paul Donohoe also spoke about the dangers of driving while having drugs in your system. 

The meeting heard that people test positive for drugs several days after using substances.

A number of  further talks are planned to take place in GAA clubs around the county over the coming weeks.

Conor Harris will speak at an health and wellness evening will takes place tonight (January 30) at the Blacks and Whites GAA Club house at Skeoughvosteen. The talk takes place at 7.30pm and all are welcome.