Pubdate: Fri, 07 Oct 2005
Source: Irish Examiner (Ireland)
Copyright: Examiner Publications Ltd, 2005
Contact:  http://www.examiner.ie/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/144
Author: Nora Bennis

HARD LESSON ON SCHOOL DRUGS PROGRAMME

I AGREE with teacher and author Julian Cohen on one thing: Ireland’s
school drug programmes do not work.

Cormac O'Keeffe (Irish Examiner, September 29) identified the problem,
even if I don't agree with him about the solution but that's a debate
for another day.

It is good to see that the penny has finally dropped. Too late for
many, it is true. The oft-vilified parents who have consistently
opposed the Walk Tall drug programme in primary schools and On My Own
Two Feet in post-primary schools can hold their heads high at last.
They were right.

I also agree with Dr Mark Morgan of St Patrick's College, Maynooth,
when he says there are "totally unrealistic expectations" as to what
schools can achieve in this area.

The expectations are unrealistic, but only because the current batch
of programmes cannot deliver.

We have the finest body of teachers in the world, but the system has
failed them. They deserve better. We, the taxpayers, deserve better.
Our schools will play a major role in the battle against drugs when,
and only when, our teachers are given the proper tools to enable them
to fight that battle.

They need programmes that make it clear to young people it is always
wrong to use illegal drugs and that there is a price to pay if they
choose to break the law. Those unfortunates who are already addicted
have learned this truth the hard way.

Nora Bennis
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MAP posted-by: Matt Elrod