Launch of Short Film: Drugs – A Community Struggle!

by activist Sat May 24, 2008 14:50

Grand Oisin OSF. Im not havin a go at your youth wing by the way, fair play to yis and keep up the good work, but I urge others to actually look at that link provided by Oisin there and compare it to Sinn Fein (Snrs) stance a few years ago. I still think its very Granny-ish. I would advise young activists interested in the issue of community and drugs to maybe volunteer in their areas to do some work with a local Youth group etc. It would be good for your organisation (OSF) and individually as members. Im from that area where the article in the link mentions and there are no Ogra Sinn Fein or adult Sinn Fein involved in community/anti drugs groups as opposed to years ago. Im not talkin about Councillors or TDs been on this board or that, im talkin about local republicans bein on the ground and bein a positive role model for particularly the youth of the areas. Most of the SF members in this area in fact are like election leafletting machines. Its up to you and other left wing youth groups to have your finger on the pulse. If not young people will not relate to the ticket selling, paper sellin, pub drinking election monsters that are rife around here. Now get out there and engage with youth in the communities, dont spend even as much time on these websites talkin to other left wing people. Tiocfaidh ar la.

by Oisín - ÓSF Sat May 24, 2008 13:23

Its a little more than that

http://www.independent.ie/national-news/council-bids-to....html

They are trying to work agianst this practice as a method of advertisement by drug dealers, not exactly a panacea but could be postive, al a NYC's zero tolerance on things like grafitti and vandalism to create a more lawful atmosphere in an area, an unfortunate term but essentially "communty normalisationi".

I'm sick of criticising things which are worthwhile because they arent exactly the solution. Youcant solve everything with one initiative or hit all bases.

by activist Fri May 23, 2008 19:39

very good lads. fair play to yis genuinely. But I think Sinn Fein Snr. have lost their credibility and influence in the fight against drugs. A few years ago SF activists were on the ground and had respect amongst the communities. They were seen as different to the other parties , always with their ear to the ground and a step ahead of the dealers. Lately frankly, they sound like me granny on the issue. A local SF representative reported in the Local newspaper a month or so ago that people are throwin runners over the telephone lines to show were drugs are available. What planet has he been on. That practice is at least 20yrs old. Dont mean to be knit pickin but its that kinda stuff that is not helpin them. They seem more concerned with these photo opportunities for elections then doin real community work. I wont even start talkin about people been left to be intimidated by drug criminals, thats for another day. Any way best of luck.

by Michelle Tue May 20, 2008 00:37

Thanks for that, this issue means alot to me having relatives lives wrecked with drink and drugs. It is brilliant to see young people taking it upon themselves to make a difference.

If I could make one slight criticism though. It would be good to include personal contributions from those who have been affected by drugs. Other than that, excellent. Keep up the good work.

by Ciara Gallagher Tue May 20, 2008 00:07

Excellent and inspiring to see young people take on such a difficult issue. The film is very innovative and manages not to be of putting by promoting young people throughout. Maith thu