Expert stunned by scale of Cocaine problem: Indo

From the Irish Independent:

Expert 'stunned' by huge scale of problem
Monday September 03 2007

The clinical director of the Rutland Centre says he is "stunned at the severe escalation in the use of cocaine".

Stephen Rowen, from the residential clinic in Templeogue, South Dublin, specialising in addiction, said, "It is no longer news to say that we have a problem in Ireland -- but it is news to realise just how much of a problem we have. Heroin is a severe problem, but it seems to have plateaued. But with cocaine it just seems to keep getting bigger and bigger.

"I can only say that, of the 250 residents we see in a year, more and more people are coming in and reporting their high-level cocaine use. More than ever before.

"I don't know why, although there are theories out there. Too much money, too much alienation, increased urbanisation. A lack of attachment to any local community or family.

"Affordability is a big factor. The cost dropped by about 40pc between 1985 and 1999, but production has gone up."

He said that there is a definite hierarchy, with cocaine users looking down on the heroin users, meaning it is difficult for many to admit they have a problem at all.

"They see cocaine as a party drug, a fun thing, a cool thing."

He argues that this is the key factor in the demand for cocaine -- its acceptance in "polite" society.

You can only buy cigs in 20s

Mr Sean Power TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children announced yesterday evening (7th December) that it will be illegal to sell cigarettes in packs of less than 20 from 31 May 2007. The sale of confectioneries that resemble tobacco products will also be banned from that date.

Speaking at the official opening of the Office of Tobacco Control offices in Naas, Mr Power said “a recent report “Children, Youth and Tobacco” tells us that 76% of young people purchase 10 packs of cigarettes. The preference for 10 packs has been shown internationally to be linked to price – which is also an important factor in young people deciding not to smoke. I believe that the removal of packs of 10 will be a clear disincentive to young people to start the habit and continue smoking.”

Department of Health and Children website

Irish Seamen's Relatives Association (1939-46)

"The publication of research initiated from 1986 into the loss of the Steam Trawler Leukos [and] SS Ardmore and the disclosure of the Irish Government's failure during the period 1939-46 to Register the Deaths of Seamen lost on Irish vessels has generated many enquiries from families and survivors. Consequently the Irish Seamen’s Relatives Association (1939-46) has been specifically formed to provide as much information as possible for the benefit of relatives of seafarers who were killed as a direct result of belligerent action while serving on neutral Irish Registered Vessels during World War Two. Membership of our Association is by invitation and strictly limited to next of kin. We will from time to time highlight issues relevant to families of Irish born service personnel irrespective of country." [Read More]

Exploring Atlantic Ireland.... An exciting petroleum province

Exploring Atlantic Ireland is a major two day conference and exhibition show organised in partnership with the Petroleum Affairs Division of Ireland’s Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources. The conference is supported by the Petroleum Infrastructure Programme, the PESGB, the Irish branch of the Energy Institute and the Ireland Newfoundland Partnership (INP).

Christmas Sing Along St Maelruains Parish

This annual event will take place on Friday 1st December in the parish centre at 7.00pm. We will be joined again this year by the D.C.C. singers and a visiting Brass Band.Come along and get into the festive spirit while singing Christmas carols, shopping for gifts and hand made decorations made by the craft group including hand made Christmas cards, decorations, hand knitted items, decorated logs and hand make cakes and enjoy a glass of wine and mince pies. Buy a raffle ticket and you may even solve some of your Christmas present list dilemmas!

Website: www.stmaelruains.ie