IRSP statement on drugs

An estimated 200 people attended an anti-drugs rally in the Short Strand this evening. The rally was called after the Republican Socialist Movement in the area had taken a hard line stance against drug dealers pushing their illicit dealings onto children and others.

Statement

Power / O'Reilly Cumann
Irish Republican Socialist Party, Short Strand, Belfast.
May 25th, 2007.

An estimated 200 people attended an anti-drugs rally in the Short Strand this evening. The rally was called after the Republican Socialist Movement in the area had taken a hard line stance against drug dealers pushing their illicit dealings onto children and others.

Speaking after the rally Short Strand IRSP representitive Gerard Forward said “We can see from the numbers assembled here that there is a clear opposition to drug dealers from within our community.

“For too long working class communities have suffered under the plight of drug dealers – often employed by the RUC/PSNI as informers. It is time the community took a stand against drug dealers.

“The dangers of all drugs – including cannabis should be exposed for all to see. Cannabis often serves as a gateway drug and aggravates mental conditions. Drug dealers are responsible for an array of social problems. From breaking up families to forcing teenagers to carry out robberies to fund their addiction.”

Mr. Forward concluded “The position of the Republican Socialist Movement as a whole is clear. We will not accept or tolerate drug dealers in our areas.”

Statement ends.