gaaboard.com

Ciarán Carey insists that this "taboo" subject in GAA circles must be tackled before the horse has bolted with the three-time All-Star adamant that "cocaine is well and truly alive in every little club in Ireland now".
"It's frightening where it's after going in the last year and a half, frightening! There isn't too much talk about it in the GAA because it's such a taboo subject. It mightn't be a popular thing to say, but it's reality and it's real," Carey told the Irish Independent.

"It's rippling through most villages and parishes in the country and there aren't too many clubs where cocaine isn't alive. I wouldn't be a bit afraid to say that about all codes; soccer, rugby, GAA or whatever, it's gone that serious."

Carey outlines how some GAA clubs are making strides to solve the growing issue by educating their members about the dangers involved, but he is abhorred with how drug use has been normalised in recent years.

"People are trying to normalise it and make it as if it's somebody having a cigarette outside, 'Sure go out and have a line instead of a fag, You're fine, no one will really mind'. That will be disastrous as a nation if we continue to go down that road," he added.

"Fifteen years ago, you'd be lucky to get a bit of hash in villages and now these places are awash with cocaine and tablets so that'll tell you how far it's after coming. It isn't going away and it's actually growing.

"I'm flabbergasted with the way it is allowed to go where it's going. It doesn't take a vacation, there's no Bank Holiday for addictions, so I'm going to do my best to confront it in whatever way I can.

"Addiction has no boundaries. It's inevitable that anyone who takes cocaine recreationally, if you take it long enough and often enough then the drug will snap them and hijack them.

"You're masking, you're hiding, you're ducking and diving from something, you're obviously taking this to cope. I need to stress also, this isn't just a male issue, cocaine is fairly strong in both sexes."

That sounds like a great crusade for the incoming President.

I completely agree. You notice in pubs and the like too. Back in the 00s and even 10s it would have been unheard of. Now it's literally everywhere. Was talking to someone who works in the pub industry recently and they were saying the amount of people ordering pints of water all night and are still off their face is sky rocketing.

It's a cultural shift in recent years that has caused this where being opposed to drugs is now seen as old fashioned, too conservative etc. It's part of the huge swing to the left by younger people where nothing is off limits, let's do everything, take everything, to hell with the consequences. So long as I feel good in that moment, that's all that matters.

That's classic right wing philosophy ;)

Whatever happened to DAAD?

Its not just young people at it they say lots of oider ones at it aswell you think after 30 you lay of the stimulants for your heart

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 19, 2023, 08:04:19 AM
I completely agree. You notice in pubs and the like too. Back in the 00s and even 10s it would have been unheard of. Now it's literally everywhere. Was talking to someone who works in the pub industry recently and they were saying the amount of people ordering pints of water all night and are still off their face is sky rocketing.

It's a cultural shift in recent years that has caused this where being opposed to drugs is now seen as old fashioned, too conservative etc. It's part of the huge swing to the left by younger people where nothing is off limits, let's do everything, take everything, to hell with the consequences. So long as I feel good in that moment, that's all that matters.

Yes. People doing drive is left wing. Bloody hell

I don't know where you lot hung about back in the late 80's through the 90's but drugs was a massive part of the nightlife, while people may not have been snorting coke in the bogs, they were popping pills and smoking dope flat out..

If someone thinks the new president should take this on he'd be wise not to make it top billing as it will not make one iota of a difference

I've no answers in how to get people to get past this, its just the new wave of stuff and hopefully like most adults they wise up start a family and crack on with their lives

And as for DAAD, are you serious? You'd need to send them to Colombia to sort out the problem ffs, if they are serious about cracking down that stuff coming in they tell the cops where its coming in who's bring it in and stop at source, but like any drug if it becomes limited they move on to something else, probably something far worse

I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

100%. I think people expect sporting bodies to solve every social issue.

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

Take the blinkers off. The social and community structure of the GAA provides an opportunity for it to thrive. If it's Ireland's problem it's the GAA's problem and vice versa. It is not up to the GAA to "solve" it, but it is inescapably part of it.

As someone in my mid 30s heavily involved in a club abroad where we have a lot of pass through of students and younger travellers, I am genuinely shocked at the availability and widespread use of "hard" drugs. Pills, ketamine, coke, all of it. Maybe I'm naive and it's all a bit "old man yells at cloud" but it absolutley terrifies me. When I was their age I wouldn't have had the first clue about how to even ask someone how I would go about buying coke. Nobody I knew would have a clue. A few of them would smoke weed but nothing more. Now it seems young people are in the minority if they don't do drugs. It's not just lads either. Rural and city folk. It's completely rampant, and not as if it's cheap either.

Someone has to keep the Kinahans and all the rest in their luxury lifestyles

Seems perfectly acceptable to be on it 24/7 if you're irelands most famous MMA star

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 09:41:00 AM
I don't know where you lot hung about back in the late 80's through the 90's but drugs was a massive part of the nightlife, while people may not have been snorting coke in the bogs, they were popping pills and smoking dope flat out..

If someone thinks the new president should take this on he'd be wise not to make it top billing as it will not make one iota of a difference

I've no answers in how to get people to get past this, its just the new wave of stuff and hopefully like most adults they wise up start a family and crack on with their lives

And as for DAAD, are you serious? You'd need to send them to Colombia to sort out the problem ffs, if they are serious about cracking down that stuff coming in they tell the cops where its coming in who's bring it in and stop at source, but like any drug if it becomes limited they move on to something else, probably something far worse

No I wasn't being serious lol.

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

I'm not sure that the GAA has not turned a blind eye to a bit of wife beating even in more recent times.

In relation to cocaine, the GAA didn't originate the problem but it should not turn a blind eye either.

Quote from: armaghniac on July 19, 2023, 11:28:07 AM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

I'm not sure that the GAA has not turned a blind eye to a bit of wife beating even in more recent times.

In relation to cocaine, the GAA didn't originate the problem but it should not turn a blind eye either.

Serious question, what can the GAA do, bar maybe run the odd workshop to highlight the dangers of drugs there's not much else they can do

are county players still subject to random drug testing?

Quote from: clarshack on July 19, 2023, 12:11:38 PM
are county players still subject to random drug testing?

I think it comes with the territory once you avail of sports council grants

Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM


Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

This is really all that needs to be said on this topic. This is a state, government, legal, culture and society issue. The GAA has nothing to do with this. There is a conflation of rural Ireland and the GAA too much now.

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Not often I agree but absolutely on the button here.

Quote from: Saffron_sam20 on July 19, 2023, 11:59:53 AM

Quote from: armaghniac on July 19, 2023, 11:28:07 AM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

I'm not sure that the GAA has not turned a blind eye to a bit of wife beating even in more recent times.

In relation to cocaine, the GAA didn't originate the problem but it should not turn a blind eye either.

Serious question, what can the GAA do, bar maybe run the odd workshop to highlight the dangers of drugs there's not much else they can do

Test players like they committed to when the grants were handed out.

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

3 club players? Why? Maybe the local gym should test and ban people that like to work out as a hobby too? Perhaps the cinema should make everyone provide a sample while they get their popcorn?

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Tis instead of the drink from what i hear Jog. And cheaper. No hangovers.

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

I'm not  sure.  I don't do drugs , nor intend to , but  how might legalising  and taxing drugs work  out better in the long run?

I can't imagine there  would be    any less  people taking drugs if the whole thing  was legalised.   The same addiction problems will exist , and the same services  needed to deal  with that.  Health services are on their knees  as it is. Will the tax from legalising drugs  really be put into  the required drug services ? I highly doubt it

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Other sports do it.

Which sports ?

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 08:30:35 PM

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Other sports do it.

Do they test Sunday pub teams?

Y'know the way there's doping in cycling and athletics - is there a drug that could improve your game in GAA?

Worked on quite a few large site's across the water up till about 2020, regular random piss tests carried out on a Monday or Tuesday after a bank holiday weekend. Fail the test automatic off site and banded by  the main contractor from any of there sites for 6 months.

I can only imagine Siptu's or CIF's reaction if the construction industry here decided to implement it.

Quote from: ONeill on July 19, 2023, 10:29:47 PM
Y'know the way there's doping in cycling and athletics - is there a drug that could improve your game in GAA?

According to Brendan Rogers , Tea.

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Legalising them makes them no less addictive. Why make such a harmful substance so readily available? Better off educating, educating, educating.

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 12:02:28 AM

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Legalising them makes them no less addictive. Why make such a harmful substance so readily available? Better off educating, educating, educating.

class As are readily available.

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 09:50:50 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 08:30:35 PM

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Other sports do it.

Do they test Sunday pub teams?

If they get paid, yes.

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 08:30:35 PM

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Other sports do it.

Probably a bit ott.  Can't be destroying someone's life , they are amateur sports people after all. Yea do the tests, but you can't hang these youngsters out to dry for the failing so the entire nation.

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 12:02:28 AM

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Hello Mr Kinahan all is forgiven can you source us some marching powder please or give us the contact details for the biggest drug baron in Columbia we are legalising Cocaine and need contacts of the most dangerous criminals in the world to buy from.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/articles/cw91ne33lldo.amp (https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.com/news/articles/cw91ne33lldo.amp)

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 07:41:03 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 12:02:28 AM

Quote from: trailer on July 19, 2023, 03:25:34 PM

Quote from: blasmere on July 19, 2023, 01:40:45 PM
Drugs need legalising and regulating the world over.

The war on drugs has failed drastically. Is it not $trillions they've spent in the states on it and way worse off - deaths, jails full etc., fentanyl, which is instantly deadly for some, is rife in plenty of areas and spreading to other parts of the world too.

Agree. Legalise, tax and regulate. Drugs won the war on drugs a fair while ago.

Legalising them makes them no less addictive. Why make such a harmful substance so readily available? Better off educating, educating, educating.

class As are readily available.

To alot of people they are not . Put them in every Spar and Centra they will be.

Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It would remove the criminality aspect of it on either side - i.e. taker and seller. It would bring in tax. Gone are drug gangs. Quality can be controlled etc etc as you do hear of people dying with "bad batches" etc.

(That's not me arguing it's right - legalising cocaine etc too far for me but those are arguments you hear. It wouldn't remove addiction problems which are a huge problem.).

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 20, 2023, 08:19:14 AM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 09:50:50 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 08:30:35 PM

Quote from: JoG2 on July 19, 2023, 06:23:11 PM

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 19, 2023, 05:43:07 PM

Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2023, 10:13:54 AM
I don't like connection made here between GAA and cocaine.

It suggests that as both can be found in every town and village in Ireland, then the former is naturally in a position to take control of the latter.

It suggests that when education fails, commonsense fails, policing fails, self-control fails and parenting fails, then the GAA must step in.

Which makes we wonder. Are us GAA folk also responsible for the alcoholism and gambling problems rife on our island? Is it our fault that our locals won't integrate nicely with those "freeloading foreigners"? Was it our fault that paedophilia was allowed to run rampant in the Catholic Church, or that wifebeating was traditionally such a popular pastime in Ireland?

Seriously, Carey and his like need stopped in his tracks.

Ireland has a cocaine issue. Not the GAA.

While he is clearly launching himself for something, are the GAA doing the testing they committed to? Pick off 3 intercounty and 3 club players, ban them and send a message

Make sure their faces is plastered all over the local and national press... Really go to town on them for what they do in their own time, hamper current or future job prospects. Ban from training / playing, take their exercise and their sporting social life... Stocks maybe BB2??

PS: how do folk afford this stuff on top of the drink on a night out??

Other sports do it.

Do they test Sunday pub teams?

If they get paid, yes.

Plenty of pub teams in the south professional?

https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/republic-of-ireland/suspected-cocaine-packages-discovered-on-co-donegal-beaches/a394763372.html

No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

Quote from: Franko on July 20, 2023, 09:56:11 AM
No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

If the GAA really did want to make a stand they'd do random testing of club and county teams. Zero tolerance, anyone with illegal drugs in the system gets a year ban. How long does the likes of coke etc stay in the system?

Quote from: clarshack on July 20, 2023, 09:43:04 AM
https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/republic-of-ireland/suspected-cocaine-packages-discovered-on-co-donegal-beaches/a394763372.html

Was walking those beaches last week!! Bloody useless dogs of mine couldn't find them!!

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

imtommygun summed it up fairly well on previous page. Also can be argued that criminalising it has done feck all to stop the supply/availability. (Not saying I want it legalised but can see the reasoning

Quote from: Armagh18 on July 20, 2023, 10:22:24 AM

Quote from: Franko on July 20, 2023, 09:56:11 AM
No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

If the GAA really did want to make a stand they'd do random testing of club and county teams. Zero tolerance, anyone with illegal drugs in the system gets a year ban. How long does the likes of coke etc stay in the system?

Are we doing other banned substances for club players? how long would Anabolic steroids, give them a year ban also, anyone using ventilators to the scum bags

Pretty sure there's a banned list that county players would get and would know about. Club players wouldn't get that at all. It gets very murky like you say.How do you work with exemptions etc. The administration and can of worms it would create fo rtesting club players would be huge. (For example I think I read you could fail drugs tests for taking things like lemsip max strength...).

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:26:32 AM

Quote from: Armagh18 on July 20, 2023, 10:22:24 AM

Quote from: Franko on July 20, 2023, 09:56:11 AM
No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

If the GAA really did want to make a stand they'd do random testing of club and county teams. Zero tolerance, anyone with illegal drugs in the system gets a year ban. How long does the likes of coke etc stay in the system?

Are we doing other banned substances for club players? how long would Anabolic steroids, give them a year ban also, anyone using ventilators to the scum bags

crazy, lads who are maybe young and dabbling get drug tested, banned from the club for a year, their parents find out and they are the tall of the town/ village. What is that gonna do for the lad, make them feel better or send them further down the substance abuse road.

We talk about the GAA being a community organisation but we are gonna ban lads/ girls from taking part and being involved because they took a recreational drug? seems a bit much to me

I generally talk out my ass here for the craic, but there is some waffle going on here, pub soccer teams in the south getting tested and lads looking club players tested also!! Jesus wept!

Be testing for alcohol next!

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:41:18 AM
I generally talk out my ass here for the craic, but there is some waffle going on here, pub soccer teams in the south getting tested and lads looking club players tested also!! Jesus wept!

Be testing for alcohol next!

100%
Testing of club players is not going to happen. It's not up to the GAA to fix societal issues.

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Even if you legalise some drugs then people will just move to other illegal ones and you can't legalise everything. There is a legal drug,  alcohol, but people always want more. 

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

San Fransisco (California) - Thats why drugs shouldn't be legal

Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2023, 09:23:58 AM
It would remove the criminality aspect of it on either side - i.e. taker and seller. It would bring in tax. Gone are drug gangs. Quality can be controlled etc etc as you do hear of people dying with "bad batches" etc.

(That's not me arguing it's right - legalising cocaine etc too far for me but those are arguments you hear. It wouldn't remove addiction problems which are a huge problem.).

They would still be about there would still be money to be made from it just look at cigarettes and diesel to name just 2 products that criminal gangs like to get their hands dirty with.

It something can be bought cheaper there are a lot of people who will buy it and not care about quality.

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:41:18 AM
I generally talk out my ass here for the craic, but there is some waffle going on here, pub soccer teams in the south getting tested and lads looking club players tested also!! Jesus wept!

Be testing for alcohol next!

some gaa clubs probably send goons around to local pubs to see if drinking

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

I think we all know this wouldn't be the case and it would be spunked on an overpriced contract to a mate of some MP. Does the tax revenue from alcohol go toward rehab and help for alcoholics?

Quote from: Cavan19 on July 20, 2023, 11:38:35 AM

Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2023, 09:23:58 AM
It would remove the criminality aspect of it on either side - i.e. taker and seller. It would bring in tax. Gone are drug gangs. Quality can be controlled etc etc as you do hear of people dying with "bad batches" etc.

(That's not me arguing it's right - legalising cocaine etc too far for me but those are arguments you hear. It wouldn't remove addiction problems which are a huge problem.).

They would still be about there would still be money to be made from it just look at cigarettes and diesel to name just 2 products that criminal gangs like to get their hands dirty with.

It something can be bought cheaper there are a lot of people who will buy it and not care about quality.

Doing what they are doing now (nothing) isn't going to help fix it, a different approach is required

Quote from: Saffron_sam20 on July 20, 2023, 10:38:00 AM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:26:32 AM

Quote from: Armagh18 on July 20, 2023, 10:22:24 AM

Quote from: Franko on July 20, 2023, 09:56:11 AM
No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

If the GAA really did want to make a stand they'd do random testing of club and county teams. Zero tolerance, anyone with illegal drugs in the system gets a year ban. How long does the likes of coke etc stay in the system?

Are we doing other banned substances for club players? how long would Anabolic steroids, give them a year ban also, anyone using ventilators to the scum bags

crazy, lads who are maybe young and dabbling get drug tested, banned from the club for a year, their parents find out and they are the tall of the town/ village. What is that gonna do for the lad, make them feel better or send them further down the substance abuse road.

We talk about the GAA being a community organisation but we are gonna ban lads/ girls from taking part and being involved because they took a recreational drug? seems a bit much to me

That'd be the way to do it, zero tolerance so everyone knows where they stand. Never gonna happen though.

Quote from: Armagh18 on July 20, 2023, 12:18:43 PM

Quote from: Saffron_sam20 on July 20, 2023, 10:38:00 AM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:26:32 AM

Quote from: Armagh18 on July 20, 2023, 10:22:24 AM

Quote from: Franko on July 20, 2023, 09:56:11 AM
No issue with testing any county player who is in receipt of GPA funds

I think it's one of the Sports Council pre-requisites for doling out the loot

Taking that money confers a certain responsibility on a player IMO

Now, club teams is an entirely different thing entirely...

If the GAA really did want to make a stand they'd do random testing of club and county teams. Zero tolerance, anyone with illegal drugs in the system gets a year ban. How long does the likes of coke etc stay in the system?

Are we doing other banned substances for club players? how long would Anabolic steroids, give them a year ban also, anyone using ventilators to the scum bags

crazy, lads who are maybe young and dabbling get drug tested, banned from the club for a year, their parents find out and they are the tall of the town/ village. What is that gonna do for the lad, make them feel better or send them further down the substance abuse road.

We talk about the GAA being a community organisation but we are gonna ban lads/ girls from taking part and being involved because they took a recreational drug? seems a bit much to me

That'd be the way to do it, zero tolerance so everyone knows where they stand. Never gonna happen though.

No disrespect but you are talking out your arse, do you know the size of the organisation? How many players it caters for in an amateur or pastime recreational sport?

Who is funding that? Carey? FFS some clubs can't afford to keep the boiler on for showers or get the grass cut!

Quote from: Eire90 on July 20, 2023, 11:39:29 AM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:41:18 AM
I generally talk out my ass here for the craic, but there is some waffle going on here, pub soccer teams in the south getting tested and lads looking club players tested also!! Jesus wept!

Be testing for alcohol next!

some gaa clubs probably send goons around to local pubs to see if drinking

Or younger lads just put it on their socials and then want to know who rats them out!

Quote from: armaghniac on July 20, 2023, 11:26:52 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Even if you legalise some drugs then people will just move to other illegal ones and you can't legalise everything. There is a legal drug,  alcohol, but people always want more.

Make them all legal. Criminalise the wholesalers.

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 01:48:13 PM

Quote from: armaghniac on July 20, 2023, 11:26:52 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Even if you legalise some drugs then people will just move to other illegal ones and you can't legalise everything. There is a legal drug,  alcohol, but people always want more.

Make them all legal. Criminalise the wholesalers.

How do you work with someone on heroin when you legalise it ?

Quote from: Mourne Red on July 20, 2023, 11:28:33 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

San Fransisco (California) - Thats why drugs shouldn't be legal

wife works with someone who was there recently and they said it was the worst place they have ever visited.

Quote from: Kidder81 on July 20, 2023, 02:16:35 PM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 01:48:13 PM

Quote from: armaghniac on July 20, 2023, 11:26:52 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Even if you legalise some drugs then people will just move to other illegal ones and you can't legalise everything. There is a legal drug,  alcohol, but people always want more.

Make them all legal. Criminalise the wholesalers.

How do you work with someone on heroin when you legalise it ?

How do you work with someone if they're blocked?

Quote from: clarshack on July 20, 2023, 02:46:09 PM

Quote from: Mourne Red on July 20, 2023, 11:28:33 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

San Fransisco (California) - Thats why drugs shouldn't be legal

wife works with someone who was there recently and they said it was the worst place they have ever visited.

I go there a few times a year with work. It has regressed at an alarming rate over the past few years.

As prevalent as cocaine has become in recent years, I'd say alcohol remains a much bigger scourge on Irish society and on the healthcare systems north and south. Talk of testing and banning club players is nonsense. If we're going down that road then we need to make sure we test all players who have driven to a game on a Sunday for alcohol in their blood. In my eyes, this isn't the responsibility of the GAA. Someone here mentioned steroids, I'd say it presents more danger on the field to opponents when juiced up lads are piling in to a challenge, creating a higher risk of injuring another player. If anything that would be more necessary to police within the GAA, and not recreational drugs (as bad as may be in general terms).

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 02:55:05 PM

Quote from: Kidder81 on July 20, 2023, 02:16:35 PM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 01:48:13 PM

Quote from: armaghniac on July 20, 2023, 11:26:52 AM

Quote from: general_lee on July 20, 2023, 11:21:07 AM

Quote from: RedHand88 on July 20, 2023, 10:19:15 AM

Quote from: tonto1888 on July 20, 2023, 09:18:15 AM
Genuine question. Why would legalising then help?

It doesn't. It makes it worse. I have no idea why people push this argument. Is it the tax revenue?

How does it make it worse?

Explain to me how diverting (wasted) resources from chasing, arresting, charging and prosecuting individuals for carrying small amounts of drugs to a more public-health based approach makes things worse?

You're literally freeing up hundreds of thousands if not millions of pounds that can be put towards treating drug addicts, needle exchanges, funding educational programmes etc rather than pissing away time, money and resources on a battle you're never going to win.

Even if you legalise some drugs then people will just move to other illegal ones and you can't legalise everything. There is a legal drug,  alcohol, but people always want more.

Make them all legal. Criminalise the wholesalers.

How do you work with someone on heroin when you legalise it ?

How do you work with someone if they're blocked?

Implement a Drugs & Alcohol policy at work. 

Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2023, 09:23:58 AM
It would remove the criminality aspect of it on either side - i.e. taker and seller. It would bring in tax. Gone are drug gangs. Quality can be controlled etc etc as you do hear of people dying with "bad batches" etc.

(That's not me arguing it's right - legalising cocaine etc too far for me but those are arguments you hear. It wouldn't remove addiction problems which are a huge problem.).

Would ot take away the criminality aspect? There are still criminal gangs making a lot of money from illicit cigarettes 

Probably not entirely as you say but it would definitely reduce it significantly.

are gaa players tested for roids and is there element of players getting bigger thats made the sport more robotic

Quote from: Eire90 on July 21, 2023, 10:22:54 AM
are gaa players tested for roids and is there element of players getting bigger thats made the sport more robotic

County players are tested for banned substances

There's been 2 players I'm aware of have been done over the years. Definitely tested.

Quote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2023, 11:40:31 AM
There's been 2 players I'm aware of have been done over the years. Definitely tested.

I know of previous county players from my club that were tested

https://www.gaa.ie/my-gaa/players/anti-doping (https://www.gaa.ie/my-gaa/players/anti-doping)

Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol

Quote from: befair on July 22, 2023, 01:01:34 PM
Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol

I've never heard of publicans threatening to  burn down peoples houses or putting guns to peoples heads in order to get paid for drink

Quote from: whitey on July 22, 2023, 01:27:37 PM

Quote from: befair on July 22, 2023, 01:01:34 PM
Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol

I've never heard of publicans threatening to  burn down peoples houses or putting guns to peoples heads in order to get paid for drink

1 in 6 people in ireland have a problem with alcohol; 1 in 3 people are miserable because some in their family has a problem with alcohol.

Where are lads getting money to pay for cocaine? It's an expensive habit and we're in a cost of living crisis.

Quote from: Ash Smoker on July 22, 2023, 09:25:04 PM
Where are lads getting money to pay for cocaine? It's an expensive habit and we're in a cost of living crisis.

Same place lads used to get money from to give to the bookies on a Saturday: working.

Quote from: whitey on July 22, 2023, 01:27:37 PM

Quote from: befair on July 22, 2023, 01:01:34 PM
Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol

I've never heard of publicans threatening to  burn down peoples houses or putting guns to peoples heads in order to get paid for drink

I'm sure you've heard of people actually losing their lives because the other driver was off their head on drink? 

Quote from: general_lee on July 23, 2023, 08:09:52 AM

Quote from: whitey on July 22, 2023, 01:27:37 PM

Quote from: befair on July 22, 2023, 01:01:34 PM
Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol

I've never heard of publicans threatening to  burn down peoples houses or putting guns to peoples heads in order to get paid for drink

I'm sure you've heard of people actually losing their lives because the other driver was off their head on drink?

Of course I did

I was responding to a claim that "Cocaine is a very very minor problem compared to alcohol"

Cocaine is not a very very minor problem in Ireland: It is an extremely serious problem

https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2023/04/01/how-drug-debts-are-used-to-control-and-terrorise-irish-communities/

is cocaine overdoses that  common

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

We'll agree to disagree

IMO cocaine is not a "very ver minor problem" in Ireland compared to alcohol

And among a certain age cohort I would actually say it's as big a problem as alcohol

https://www.irishcentral.com/opinion/ireland-citizens-assembly-drugs.amp

https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2023/06/20/cocaine-has-overtaken-heroin-and-other-opioids-to-become-most-common-problem-drug/

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

Except.... the previous poster.....

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Fair point, I probably worded it badly. I was trying to make the point that the drug industry for want of a better term is an issue.

Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 23, 2023, 09:12:34 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

;D Fcuk me.


Carry on....

Two things can be true at the same time,

Alcohol abuse is pervasive and has been for decades but cocaine is not a very very minor issue.

I was in Ireland recently and heard about an 80 year old woman having a gun put to her head and forced to sell her house to cover a drug debt for a family member

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 10:01:47 PM

Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 23, 2023, 09:12:34 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

;D Fcuk me.


Carry on....

Two things can be true at the same time,

Alcohol abuse is pervasive and has been for decades but cocaine is not a very very minor issue.

I was in Ireland recently and heard about an 80 year old woman having a gun put to her head and forced to sell her house to cover a drug debt for a family member

yeh right....

Quote from: befair on July 24, 2023, 12:17:24 AM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 10:01:47 PM

Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 23, 2023, 09:12:34 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

;D Fcuk me.


Carry on....

Two things can be true at the same time,

Alcohol abuse is pervasive and has been for decades but cocaine is not a very very minor issue.

I was in Ireland recently and heard about an 80 year old woman having a gun put to her head and forced to sell her house to cover a drug debt for a family member

yeh right....

Are you for real? This happens all the time. Cuckooing is a huge problem.

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 24, 2023, 04:07:48 PM

Quote from: befair on July 24, 2023, 12:17:24 AM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 10:01:47 PM

Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 23, 2023, 09:12:34 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

;D Fcuk me.


Carry on....

Two things can be true at the same time,

Alcohol abuse is pervasive and has been for decades but cocaine is not a very very minor issue.

I was in Ireland recently and heard about an 80 year old woman having a gun put to her head and forced to sell her house to cover a drug debt for a family member

yeh right....

Are you for real? This happens all the time. Cuckooing is a huge problem.

Anecdotal evidence is not evidence

Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 24, 2023, 04:07:48 PM

Quote from: befair on July 24, 2023, 12:17:24 AM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 10:01:47 PM

Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 23, 2023, 09:12:34 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 08:22:55 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 07:27:42 PM

Quote from: LeoMc on July 23, 2023, 06:51:02 PM

Quote from: befair on July 23, 2023, 06:28:14 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 23, 2023, 02:37:53 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on July 23, 2023, 01:42:20 PM
is cocaine overdoses that  common

Probably not

But entire towns in rural Ireland are being terrorized by people collecting drug debts

There are feuds going on all over the country over control of the drugs trade with several people murdered

https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/07/17/christy-hylands-campaign-against-drugs-in-mayo-is-to-be-applauded/

At the risk of repeating myself (AGAIN) "Cocaine is NOT a very very minor problem"

That is the context of my comment

But you are missing the context; in comparison to alcohol, cocaine abuse is a very very minor problem. Ask any doctor how many patients they have with an alcohol problem. 70% of Irish men and 34% of women aged 15+ are considered to be hazardous drinkers

Are you not simply adding the word abuse in to change the terms of the discussion?
I don't think he was arguing cocaine abuse being an issue,  he was arguing cocaine was an issue.

Alcohol abuse is an issue. The Alcohol industry is not an issue.
Cocaine abuse is not an issue. The cocaine industry is an issue.

The alcohol industry is a huge issue.

Nobody said it wasnt

;D Fcuk me.


Carry on....

Two things can be true at the same time,

Alcohol abuse is pervasive and has been for decades but cocaine is not a very very minor issue.

I was in Ireland recently and heard about an 80 year old woman having a gun put to her head and forced to sell her house to cover a drug debt for a family member

yeh right....

Are you for real? This happens all the time. Cuckooing is a huge problem.

Yes Cuckooing is a big issue

Cuckolding

https://m.independent.ie/news/eircode-gang-suspected-as-man-24-abducted-and-badly-beaten-on-beach-over-debt/a1016599860.html

" Drug related intimidation is a massive and increasing countywide problem."

Quote from: whitey on July 27, 2023, 12:28:15 PM
https://m.independent.ie/news/eircode-gang-suspected-as-man-24-abducted-and-badly-beaten-on-beach-over-debt/a1016599860.html

" Drug related intimidation is a massive and increasing countywide problem."

Don't be shocked though, have you missed the show's Love Hate or Kin? You'd be a fool to think it just happens in the big smoke!

has there been a few suicides over drug debts

Quote from: Eire90 on July 27, 2023, 01:16:17 PM
has there been a few suicides over drug debts

Be no debt if it were legal, not saying that would stop people taking drugs though

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 27, 2023, 01:05:15 PM

Quote from: whitey on July 27, 2023, 12:28:15 PM
https://m.independent.ie/news/eircode-gang-suspected-as-man-24-abducted-and-badly-beaten-on-beach-over-debt/a1016599860.html

" Drug related intimidation is a massive and increasing countywide problem."

Don't be shocked though, have you missed the show's Love Hate or Kin? You'd be a fool to think it just happens in the big smoke!

I have first hand experience through a family member unfortunately

I know all about it

he cocaine problem in the GAA is now 'in every corner of Ireland', a Clare referee has said.

Pat Byrne-O'Connell said players have turned to the drug after being told not to drink alcohol.

He told Lunchtime Live he believes the problem is in every club across the country, and that it is one of the GAA's own making



"Massive," he said. "Out of control - and it's in every club in every county in every corner of Ireland."

"Anyone that thinks it's not is totally lost and blind.

"It's out of control and it's the GAA's own fault; they've created this monster by introducing what's called the alcohol ban.

"All these coaches coming in who know little or nothing about the social life of young people banning alcohol.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

'Either blind or stupid'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said there is "no difference" between the problem at club and county level.

"It's the same players, you're talking [about] the same players," he said.

"They're young fellas, they're social fellas, they're out with their friends at the weekends and that's what they're doing.

"Anyone that says it's not happening is either blind or stupid, and I don't think there's many stupid people involved in the GAA.

"They've turned their back on it because it's the easy way out".

rural drug useA man divides lines of cocaine. Image: Riccardo Ceccherini / Alamy
Mr Byrne-O'Connell, who has been working in the pub industry for 20 years, said he has seen the changes.

"I have lads coming in from training and coming in from matches [saying], 'Pat give me €100 cashback'," he said.

"They go down straight to their 'friend', get their €100, hand it over, into the toilet and come up to the bar counter [for] a 0.0.

"That's what they're doing in every club in the county, and not one club can say that it's not happening because it is".

'Easier to get drugs than drink'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said he believes the level of drug-taking is "easily" over 50% of players.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"It's every pub, it's every house party, it's everywhere.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

"It's easier to get drugs than drink," he added.

Mr Byrne-O'Connell believes testing will not happen because it is an amateur sport.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

Quote from: Truth hurts on February 02, 2024, 11:31:47 AMThe cocaine problem in the GAA is now 'in every corner of Ireland', a Clare referee has said.

Pat Byrne-O'Connell said players have turned to the drug after being told not to drink alcohol.

He told Lunchtime Live he believes the problem is in every club across the country, and that it is one of the GAA's own making

"Massive," he said. "Out of control - and it's in every club in every county in every corner of Ireland."

"Anyone that thinks it's not is totally lost and blind.

"It's out of control and it's the GAA's own fault; they've created this monster by introducing what's called the alcohol ban.

"All these coaches coming in who know little or nothing about the social life of young people banning alcohol.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

'Either blind or stupid'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said there is "no difference" between the problem at club and county level.

"It's the same players, you're talking [about] the same players," he said.

"They're young fellas, they're social fellas, they're out with their friends at the weekends and that's what they're doing.

"Anyone that says it's not happening is either blind or stupid, and I don't think there's many stupid people involved in the GAA.

"They've turned their back on it because it's the easy way out".

rural drug useA man divides lines of cocaine. Image: Riccardo Ceccherini / Alamy
Mr Byrne-O'Connell, who has been working in the pub industry for 20 years, said he has seen the changes.

"I have lads coming in from training and coming in from matches [saying], 'Pat give me €100 cashback'," he said.

"They go down straight to their 'friend', get their €100, hand it over, into the toilet and come up to the bar counter [for] a 0.0.

"That's what they're doing in every club in the county, and not one club can say that it's not happening because it is".

'Easier to get drugs than drink'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said he believes the level of drug-taking is "easily" over 50% of players.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"It's every pub, it's every house party, it's everywhere.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

"It's easier to get drugs than drink," he added.

Mr Byrne-O'Connell believes testing will not happen because it is an amateur sport.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

So is it one in two, or one in thirty taking cocaine? Make your mind up Pat ye silly f*cker.

I know cocaine is a problem in Ireland at the moment, but there is some shite spouted above. Yes cocaine is in every town & village in Ireland at the moment. But to say the GAA created the problem is hilarious. And fella's sitting at the bar drinking 0.0% but full of coke, my lord.

Quote from: toby47 on February 02, 2024, 11:50:21 AM

Quote from: Truth hurts on February 02, 2024, 11:31:47 AMThe cocaine problem in the GAA is now 'in every corner of Ireland', a Clare referee has said.

Pat Byrne-O'Connell said players have turned to the drug after being told not to drink alcohol.

He told Lunchtime Live he believes the problem is in every club across the country, and that it is one of the GAA's own making

"Massive," he said. "Out of control - and it's in every club in every county in every corner of Ireland."

"Anyone that thinks it's not is totally lost and blind.

"It's out of control and it's the GAA's own fault; they've created this monster by introducing what's called the alcohol ban.

"All these coaches coming in who know little or nothing about the social life of young people banning alcohol.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

'Either blind or stupid'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said there is "no difference" between the problem at club and county level.

"It's the same players, you're talking [about] the same players," he said.

"They're young fellas, they're social fellas, they're out with their friends at the weekends and that's what they're doing.

"Anyone that says it's not happening is either blind or stupid, and I don't think there's many stupid people involved in the GAA.

"They've turned their back on it because it's the easy way out".

rural drug useA man divides lines of cocaine. Image: Riccardo Ceccherini / Alamy
Mr Byrne-O'Connell, who has been working in the pub industry for 20 years, said he has seen the changes.

"I have lads coming in from training and coming in from matches [saying], 'Pat give me €100 cashback'," he said.

"They go down straight to their 'friend', get their €100, hand it over, into the toilet and come up to the bar counter [for] a 0.0.

"That's what they're doing in every club in the county, and not one club can say that it's not happening because it is".

'Easier to get drugs than drink'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said he believes the level of drug-taking is "easily" over 50% of players.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"It's every pub, it's every house party, it's everywhere.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

"It's easier to get drugs than drink," he added.

Mr Byrne-O'Connell believes testing will not happen because it is an amateur sport.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

So is it one in two, or one in thirty taking cocaine? Make your mind up Pat ye silly f*cker.

I know cocaine is a problem in Ireland at the moment, but there is some shite spouted above. Yes cocaine is in every town & village in Ireland at the moment. But to say the GAA created the problem is hilarious. And fella's sitting at the bar drinking 0.0% but full of coke, my lord.

That happens.

Quote from: Armagh18 on February 02, 2024, 11:51:27 AM

Quote from: toby47 on February 02, 2024, 11:50:21 AM

Quote from: Truth hurts on February 02, 2024, 11:31:47 AMThe cocaine problem in the GAA is now 'in every corner of Ireland', a Clare referee has said.

Pat Byrne-O'Connell said players have turned to the drug after being told not to drink alcohol.

He told Lunchtime Live he believes the problem is in every club across the country, and that it is one of the GAA's own making

"Massive," he said. "Out of control - and it's in every club in every county in every corner of Ireland."

"Anyone that thinks it's not is totally lost and blind.

"It's out of control and it's the GAA's own fault; they've created this monster by introducing what's called the alcohol ban.

"All these coaches coming in who know little or nothing about the social life of young people banning alcohol.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

'Either blind or stupid'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said there is "no difference" between the problem at club and county level.

"It's the same players, you're talking [about] the same players," he said.

"They're young fellas, they're social fellas, they're out with their friends at the weekends and that's what they're doing.

"Anyone that says it's not happening is either blind or stupid, and I don't think there's many stupid people involved in the GAA.

"They've turned their back on it because it's the easy way out".

rural drug useA man divides lines of cocaine. Image: Riccardo Ceccherini / Alamy
Mr Byrne-O'Connell, who has been working in the pub industry for 20 years, said he has seen the changes.

"I have lads coming in from training and coming in from matches [saying], 'Pat give me €100 cashback'," he said.

"They go down straight to their 'friend', get their €100, hand it over, into the toilet and come up to the bar counter [for] a 0.0.

"That's what they're doing in every club in the county, and not one club can say that it's not happening because it is".

'Easier to get drugs than drink'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said he believes the level of drug-taking is "easily" over 50% of players.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"It's every pub, it's every house party, it's everywhere.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

"It's easier to get drugs than drink," he added.

Mr Byrne-O'Connell believes testing will not happen because it is an amateur sport.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

So is it one in two, or one in thirty taking cocaine? Make your mind up Pat ye silly f*cker.

I know cocaine is a problem in Ireland at the moment, but there is some shite spouted above. Yes cocaine is in every town & village in Ireland at the moment. But to say the GAA created the problem is hilarious. And fella's sitting at the bar drinking 0.0% but full of coke, my lord.

That happens.

In every bar/club in Ireland? I know these things are happening but is it really as common as that?

I was in a popular bar in Belfast in December, there were about 8 urinals and only about half them being used, and I would say 20 (probably more) fella's in a que for 2 cubicles. I know it's a big problem at the minute, and loads that play GAA will do it, but so will loads that play Soccer on a Saturday, loads that are on a building site on a Monday, loads of students.....I don't see why it's being linked to the GAA.

Quote from: toby47 on February 02, 2024, 11:58:17 AM

Quote from: Armagh18 on February 02, 2024, 11:51:27 AM

Quote from: toby47 on February 02, 2024, 11:50:21 AM

Quote from: Truth hurts on February 02, 2024, 11:31:47 AMThe cocaine problem in the GAA is now 'in every corner of Ireland', a Clare referee has said.

Pat Byrne-O'Connell said players have turned to the drug after being told not to drink alcohol.

He told Lunchtime Live he believes the problem is in every club across the country, and that it is one of the GAA's own making

"Massive," he said. "Out of control - and it's in every club in every county in every corner of Ireland."

"Anyone that thinks it's not is totally lost and blind.

"It's out of control and it's the GAA's own fault; they've created this monster by introducing what's called the alcohol ban.

"All these coaches coming in who know little or nothing about the social life of young people banning alcohol.

"So the lads are coming to the pub, sitting at the bar counter with their 0.0 alcohol bottle perched in front of them off their face on cocaine.

"That's what they're doing because you can't be seen to be drinking in the GAA anymore".

'Either blind or stupid'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said there is "no difference" between the problem at club and county level.

"It's the same players, you're talking [about] the same players," he said.

"They're young fellas, they're social fellas, they're out with their friends at the weekends and that's what they're doing.

"Anyone that says it's not happening is either blind or stupid, and I don't think there's many stupid people involved in the GAA.

"They've turned their back on it because it's the easy way out".

rural drug useA man divides lines of cocaine. Image: Riccardo Ceccherini / Alamy
Mr Byrne-O'Connell, who has been working in the pub industry for 20 years, said he has seen the changes.

"I have lads coming in from training and coming in from matches [saying], 'Pat give me €100 cashback'," he said.

"They go down straight to their 'friend', get their €100, hand it over, into the toilet and come up to the bar counter [for] a 0.0.

"That's what they're doing in every club in the county, and not one club can say that it's not happening because it is".

'Easier to get drugs than drink'
Mr Byrne-O'Connell said he believes the level of drug-taking is "easily" over 50% of players.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"It's every pub, it's every house party, it's everywhere.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

"It's easier to get drugs than drink," he added.

Mr Byrne-O'Connell believes testing will not happen because it is an amateur sport.

"I would say one-in-two players in every club is taking cocaine on a weekly basis.

"If you went down and did a drug test at a GAA match every weekend, you would capture at least one fella with cocaine in his system.

So is it one in two, or one in thirty taking cocaine? Make your mind up Pat ye silly f*cker.

I know cocaine is a problem in Ireland at the moment, but there is some shite spouted above. Yes cocaine is in every town & village in Ireland at the moment. But to say the GAA created the problem is hilarious. And fella's sitting at the bar drinking 0.0% but full of coke, my lord.

That happens.

In every bar/club in Ireland? I know these things are happening but is it really as common as that?

I was in a popular bar in Belfast in December, there were about 8 urinals and only about half them being used, and I would say 20 (probably more) fella's in a que for 2 cubicles. I know it's a big problem at the minute, and loads that play GAA will do it, but so will loads that play Soccer on a Saturday, loads that are on a building site on a Monday, loads of students.....I don't see why it's being linked to the GAA.

Don't know how common the 0.0 and coke combo is but I've seen it happen.

I know far too many young people (men and women) that can't even go for a pint or two without having to get a bag. Both GAA and non- GAA players, as you say it's a massive issue in wider society as well as the GAA.

Wouldn't mind their money if they can afford to have a 'bag' and pinting

Not sure about 1 in 2, but certainly 1 in 4 players within my club would be recreational users, i'm sure others have dabbled in it infrequently also.

Not sure why this is a seen as a gaa specific problem either or how a drinks ban influences a person moving on to cocaine as a substitute ffs. 

Quote from: Ethan Tremblay on February 02, 2024, 01:21:45 PMNot sure about 1 in 2, but certainly 1 in 4 players within my club would be recreational users, i'm sure others have dabbled in it infrequently also.

Not sure why this is a seen as a gaa specific problem either or how a drinks ban influences a person moving on to cocaine as a substitute ffs. 

I agree, the article leaned towards the "aghhh let them have their pints and they'd stay away from the drugs". Is he in the drinks trade by any chance?
Seems to forget there was and still is many footballers who have drink issues as well.

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2024, 01:18:05 PMWouldn't mind their money if they can afford to have a 'bag' and pinting

Absolutely.

Work colleague, very sociable lad, heads out every Sat and Sunday (Sunday is daytime supping). Be on a decent enough wage, cries poverty all the time and the fact that he can't get a deposit together to buy his own place. We worked it out that he's blowing in or around a 1000 quid a month supping, snorting and football bets. Eye watering amounts of cash

lots of minimum wage lads on pints and bags too

i never understood the fascination  with sunday drinking

Quote from: Eire90 on February 02, 2024, 03:02:47 PMi never understood the fascination  with Sunday drinking

Hair of the dog, good sport on, bars not as busy...There are a few positives to it to be fair.

Quote from: Eire90 on February 02, 2024, 03:02:47 PMi never understood the fascination  with sunday drinking

I can imagine most of the Sunday pint men in your local were happy enough with this  ;D

It is everywhere but I do find with some articles it's add GAA to the headline and away we go. The GAA is in every village, so is coke, so let's tie them in for the story.

Every rugby club and posh school has it. Imagine testing Sunday League lads...

The GAA can't fox society in fairness and people are just living with it. Never into it myself but I do like having a few and can be guilty of a few too many at times, so I don't judge anyone.

Quote from: JoG2 on February 02, 2024, 01:37:20 PM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2024, 01:18:05 PMWouldn't mind their money if they can afford to have a 'bag' and pinting

Absolutely.

Work colleague, very sociable lad, heads out every Sat and Sunday (Sunday is daytime supping). Be on a decent enough wage, cries poverty all the time and the fact that he can't get a deposit together to buy his own place. We worked it out that he's blowing in or around a 1000 quid a month supping, snorting and football bets. Eye watering amounts of cash

Was watching a program recently  about healthy eating

This couple with kids moved back home  with a  parent , in order to save for a deposit for mortgage.   Been there over 2 years and no nearer to deposit.  Long story  short , they were spending  over £300 a week on takeaways.  (How is that even possible?!)

Anyway, I just  think  people have no idea how to  save or budget these days. Everything is just  on credit  cards and the likes. Like spoilt children ,  they see something and they have to  get it. And get it now. No waiting, budgeting or  saving up.  Everything  has to be got now.

Sunday pints back in the day!! Super Sundays then when the GAA season started, pints after the game! Picked up around 7, food sleep ready for work!


Now I wait till around 4 ish before opening a can or two while the sport is on and making the dinner! Ah the joys of being old!

What is it that  makes people start taking cocaine?

I can sort of understand the teens/early 20's , out on  the town ,  everyelse is doing it etc etc. But I know of plenty of 40-60 year olds  on it . 

I mean , what possesses them to start?

speaking as a 40 something myself , and not  frequenting pubs/clubs anymore,  with absolutely no intention of ever taking  coke or any other drug , .... i just  can't get my head around why anyone would start it (particularly anyone  married with kids,  over 35 etc)....

Quote from: AustinPowers on February 02, 2024, 04:48:38 PMWhat is it that  makes people start taking cocaine?

I can sort of understand the teens/early 20's , out on  the town ,  everyelse is doing it etc etc. But I know of plenty of 40-60 year olds  on it . 

I mean , what possesses them to start?

speaking as a 40 something myself , and not  frequenting pubs/clubs anymore,  with absolutely no intention of ever taking  coke or any other drug , .... i just  can't get my head around why anyone would start it (particularly anyone  married with kids,  over 35 etc)....

Feeling low and looking for instant high would be my guess.

I see publican Byrne O'Connell said its easier to get drugs than drink hyperbole much?

Quote from: AustinPowers on February 02, 2024, 04:48:38 PMWhat is it that  makes people start taking cocaine?

I can sort of understand the teens/early 20's , out on  the town ,  everyelse is doing it etc etc. But I know of plenty of 40-60 year olds  on it . 

I mean , what possesses them to start?

speaking as a 40 something myself , and not  frequenting pubs/clubs anymore,  with absolutely no intention of ever taking  coke or any other drug , .... i just  can't get my head around why anyone would start it (particularly anyone  married with kids,  over 35 etc)....

Because it tends to make socially awkward more outgoing, tends to give sleepy/tired people more energy to party all night, and tends to make nervous people feel invincible.

Not everyone gets the same vibes from coke. Some people just get a waggly jaw and sit there bemused.

But for many people it's a quicker and more fun escape from reality than booze.

The biggest problem with coke likely isn't the now. It's the 20-30 years from now, and the mental health side effects that are coming down the line.

I'm sure it's perfectly possible to live a long, healthy and mentally stable life after a sustained period of cocaine use; the human body does have remarkable powers of recovery. But at the same time I think it's going to be an awful lot less likely for things to pan out like that.

Quote from: Franko on February 02, 2024, 03:49:49 PM

Quote from: Eire90 on February 02, 2024, 03:02:47 PMi never understood the fascination  with sunday drinking

I can imagine most of the Sunday pint men in your local were happy enough with this  ;D

:)

Quote from: AustinPowers on February 02, 2024, 04:48:38 PMWhat is it that  makes people start taking cocaine?

I can sort of understand the teens/early 20's , out on  the town ,  everyelse is doing it etc etc. But I know of plenty of 40-60 year olds  on it . 

I mean , what possesses them to start?

speaking as a 40 something myself , and not  frequenting pubs/clubs anymore,  with absolutely no intention of ever taking  coke or any other drug , .... i just  can't get my head around why anyone would start it (particularly anyone  married with kids,  over 35 etc)....

What possesses someone to start drinking, smoking, vaping (when never a smoker) none of the above is good for you but people seem to get something out of it.

Human nature, peer pressure, addiction, buzz, if you've never taken it before then it would be difficult to work out the why

40 to 60 year olds didn't grow up in a monastery they went to parties raves and so on, hell, your granny grew up in the 60's.

You wise up I'm sure over the years and not be at that shite, but you'd be fooling yourself into thinking 40 plus year olds are the same as your da when he was 40 plus.

Every generation will have had drugs about, social media makes it out to be 'crazy'

I wouldn't get too wound up about the bogs in the men's being filled, unless you're dying for a crap

The good thing, if there is one, is that a few lads are spotting their habits early and seeking help early.

irish town centres are now go zones on friday and saturday nights because of people on coke looking to fight or just shouting at people.

No, they aren't.
Fights, and people looking them, have been a theme of town centre Friday & Saturday nights long before Cocaine had any place in Irish society.

Just shouting at people  ;D

Which specific towns... Always been towns here and there that are nothing but fights. Booze would be worse for fighting I imagine too.

They say strabane is really bad with coke.

A typical Irish independent article. A leading headline and SFA detail. What are the numbers on cocaine spend and abuse and how much does it cost the health system ?

Quote from: seafoid on February 03, 2024, 07:29:40 PMA typical Irish independent article. A leading headline and SFA detail. What are the numbers on cocaine spend and abuse and how much does it cost the health system ?

Not much of a cost of living crisis if all the lads are on the coke

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 03, 2024, 08:12:50 PM

Quote from: seafoid on February 03, 2024, 07:29:40 PMA typical Irish independent article. A leading headline and SFA detail. What are the numbers on cocaine spend and abuse and how much does it cost the health system ?

Not much of a cost of living crisis if all the lads are on the coke

Depends what level of society and what age group

VHI is up, petrol hasn't come down much, food is up , mortgage rates are up

Quote from: seafoid on February 03, 2024, 08:25:08 PM

Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 03, 2024, 08:12:50 PM

Quote from: seafoid on February 03, 2024, 07:29:40 PMA typical Irish independent article. A leading headline and SFA detail. What are the numbers on cocaine spend and abuse and how much does it cost the health system ?

Not much of a cost of living crisis if all the lads are on the coke

Depends what level of society and what age group

VHI is up, petrol hasn't come down much, food is up , mortgage rates are up

Apparently they are taking it from the ages of 18 through to 60!

Is food bank usage up?

The plural of apparently is not data.

Quote from: Eire90 on February 03, 2024, 06:09:34 PMThey say strabane is really bad with coke.

FFS. 🤦

As is Newry, as is Armagh, as is Cross, as is Lurgan.

This is a good overview of cocaine use in Ireland from the Oliver Callan show

Public disorder arrests do not involve drug testing . Perhaps a Limerick hurler should have been tested

https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22352025/

Cocaine has become so widely used in rural Ireland that in some areas you could expect it to arrive quicker than if you ordered pizza.

This week on The Pat Kenny Show, reporters are investigating the use, impact and future of cocaine in Ireland.

Speaking to experts and those with first-hand experience, reporter Josh Crosbie began investigations in rural Ireland, where the white powder has seen an explosion in popularity.

"Five years ago, you would have had to know the mate of a mate of a mate," one man said.

"Now it's a one-space transaction - you know someone."

One man in Offaly said he would use cocaine "here and there".

"It wouldn't be every weekend," he said. "Maybe the bank holiday.

"It's a party drug."

Cocaine 'freely available'
Addiction counsellor and former Galway hurler Justin Campbell said the "supply and demand" for cocaine in rural Ireland has grown dramatically.

"The fact that you can go into any village or town and get it in 10 of 15 minutes," he said.

"I had a client who once told me if he ordered cocaine and ordered a pizza, the cocaine would arrive before the pizza.

"That's worrying and that's concerning – how freely available it is.

"When you have a lot of young people who have access to the drug and it becomes trendy, then it sort of becomes acceptable and normalised."

Mr Campbell said men aged between 20 and 35 are the most common patients coming to him now.

"If you were to put somebody on a conveyor belt to choose drugs, they seem to move up the conveyor belts very, very quickly," he said.

'I don't want your patronage'
Local publican Joe Sheridan in Galway has recently joined a "Sneachta-free" campaign to prevent drug use in rural Ireland.

"I don't want your patronage if you partake in cocaine or illicit drugs," he said.

This campaign includes a sign that says "This is a sneachta-free zone, you may be required to test. We operate at zero-tolerance. If in doubt, stay out".

Blizzard of cocaine' sweeping across country, says former hurling star Ciarán Carey



https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/blizzard-of-cocaine-sweeping-across-country-says-former-hurling-star-ciaran-carey/a1195907848.html

Quote from: Eire90 on March 19, 2024, 05:42:22 PMBlizzard of cocaine' sweeping across country, says former hurling star Ciarán Carey



https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/blizzard-of-cocaine-sweeping-across-country-says-former-hurling-star-ciaran-carey/a1195907848.html

Nearly sure he said this a few years ago

This should come as a surprise to nobody. I remember an addiction counsellor telling me recently it wasn't just young people in their teens or 20s attending rehab, they are full of people of all ages and from all backgrounds.

Drugs are freely available across the country . Unlike alcohol, drug use doesn't add weight to anyone . Cnnabis psychosis happens in around one quarter of cases. Gardai do not drug test public order offences. A prominent sports star is due to be sentenced tomorrow afaik.   

Cocaine use in Ireland
 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22352025/