"Education about the harm of drugs needed; no tolerance for those who deal in misery and death" - Foran
Sonny Foran, Aontú General Election candidate for Kerry, has reacted with anger to the news that Cork city is in the grips of an epidemic. It has been reported that heroin use is rampant on the streets, with users taking the drug in the open, not caring who can see them. Sonny Foran said that the issues facing the people of Cork are also being faced in Kerry and across the country. He has called for tougher sentencing for those who deal in misery and death.
“It is vital that we educate young people regarding the dangers of drugs. A school-based programme is of paramount importance to ensure that young people realise the dangers of drugs and do not go down the road of addiction.
"However, there also has to be a stricter legal approach. I have spoken to those involved in drug use in the past. Drugs only lead to misery.
"Not only does drug use impact on life prospects, it also fundamentally affects health and wellbeing, both mental and physical, and has a wholly destructive effect on families and communities.
"I have also spoken to drug dealers and have told them that they are not welcome in our communities.
"While I have great sympathy for those caught in the grip of addiction, I have no sympathy for those who are profiting from the misery of others. For too long the courts have been too lenient with the criminals who profit from death and misery. It is time to get tough to protect our communities.”
