Minister of State Aodhan Ó Ríordáin and Senator Mary Moran on their visit to Craobh Rua
Senator Mary Moran welcomed Minister of State with special responsibility for Equality, New Communities, Culture and Drugs Strategy, Aodhan Ó Ríordáin TD to Dundalk yesterday to meet with local groups to discuss the National Drugs Strategy and the ongoing issue of drug use in the under 18s age group.
The pair toured the area and met with a number of groups for meetings which the local Senator felt were highly useful.
She said: “I was delighted to organise a meeting with the relevant local groups and Minister Ó Ríordáin to discuss the ongoing issue of drug use amongst local young people and drugs counselling services available locally.
“The meeting was attended by representatives of the local HSE addiction services, ISPCC, Tusla and An Garda Síochana Juvenile Liaison Officer.
“I have been raising the closure of drugs counselling services in Market Street Dundalk over the last number months following serious concerns raised locally. Drugs counselling services are crucial as first port of call for young people who are dealing with addiction and particularly young people who do not have the option to attend private counselling services.
“I also welcomed the opportunity to invite Minister Ó Ríordáin to visit Craobh Rua and see first-hand the excellent work they are undertaking with local youths.
‘The dedication and commitment to addressing this issue was evident amongst each of the groups that met with the Minister. I look forward to continuing to work with these local groups and Minister Ó Ríordáin on this important matter over the coming months.
“I also invited the Minister to visit Women’s Aid Dundalk in his role as Minister of State at the Department of Justice & Equality. Women’s Aid Dundalk is a crucial service in our community and most importantly a safe and secure place for women and children in need. I was eager for the Minister to learn of the invaluable work carried out by Women’s Aid Dundalk on an ongoing basis and the issues they deal with daily,” said Senator Moran.
