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1. Introduction
St. Mary’s G.A.A. Club Athenry, as a unit of the Gaelic Athletic Association, is committed to the association’s overall philosophy to “Discourage the use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco on the basis that they are incompatible with a healthy approach to sporting activity”.
Our club needs to work towards creating a safe and healthy club environment, where we can develop the skills and attitudes necessary to cope with drug and alcohol related issues. All club members, officials, coaches and volunteers, as part of this club, shall follow the law when it comes to illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco and shall display leadership and good example, particularly when dealing with underage members.
The Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Programme (A.S.A.P.) is a joint venture involving the G.A.A., the H.S.E. and the Department of Health and Children.
The general aim is to reduce the harm that is being caused by drugs and alcohol throughout the Association and in society in general.
2. Definition of Drugs:
For the purpose of this policy the term “drug” shall include all mood altering substances, both legal and illegal and involve substances such as:
• Alcohol
• Tobacco
• “Over the counter” medicines such as paracetamol, anti-histamines, couth medicines etc.
• Prescribed drugs such as antibiotics, inhalers, painkillers etc.
• Volatile substances such as aerosols, glues, petrol, cigarette lighter fuels etc.
• Controlled drugs such as cannabis, ecstasy, amphetamines, magic mushrooms, cocaine, etc.
• Performance enhancing sports related drugs as outlined by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
3. Aims and Objectives:
The aim of this policy is to ensure that all club members are kept safe from drug-related harm when involved in club activities. Our objectives are…
• To develop a consistent approach to drug-related issues to be adopted by all club members.
• To develop procedures and protocols that address drug-related issues in the club.
• To establish clear procedures for managing specific incidents of suspected drug misuse.
4. Prevention of Abuse:
The Club Executive will strive to ensure that the following practices are followed:-
• Clubhouse and dressing rooms are Alcohol and Smoke-free zones.
• Cups will not be filled with alcohol during celebrations.
• Medal presentations will not take place in public houses.
• There will be no alcohol advertisements on jerseys or in club grounds.
• Club functions involving juveniles will be “alcohol-free events”.
5. Education:
Education in this area will involve –
• Circulation of this policy to the homes of all club members.
• Making relevant information available to coaches and mentors.
• Talks/Presentations by facilitators on the problem of substance abuse.
• Attendance by A.S.A.P. Committee members at area meetings in order to keep members up-to-date on the development of the programme.
6. Club A.S.A.P. Committee:-
Willie Hannon, Mike Quinn, Keith Jordan , Jack Gibbons, Michael Gibbons and Tom Cloonan
Club A.S.A.P. Officer: Phone: 091 -84418
7. Involvement:
All persons associated with our club can help prevent drug-related harm from occurring during club activities –
• Club Members – be aware of and adhere to St. Mary’s G.A.A. Club’s policy in relation to drugs.
• Parents and Guardians – support the club in the development and implementation of the policy including procedures for handling incidents of suspected drug abuse.
• Coaches and Mentors – be aware of the possibility of drug misuse among players and pass on concerns with the aim of preventing harm.
8. Protocol for dealing with drug misuse:
To date the club has not had to deal with any drug-related incidents. However in the event of such incidents in the future, the club adopt the following procedures –
• The Club shall endeavour to respond to all drug-related incidents in a firm but fair manner, with due respect for the safety and welfare of individuals involved, other members of the club and the wider community. We shall also fulfil any legal obligations that might apply.
• Outline of Restrictions
The misuse or supply of drugs is viewed as unacceptable by the Club and is punishable by warnings, suspensions and expulsions as deemed appropriate. It is also unacceptable for members or officials to present for club duties while under the influence of a drug.
• Reporting of Incidents
Alleged or confirmed incidents in breach of this policy shall be referred to the Club Chairperson or nominee.
• Recording of Information
Information regarding alleged or confirmed incidents in breach of this policy shall be recorded in writing. The recording of factual information is preferable and all opinions shall be stated as such. Responses to cases shall also be recorded in this way. Only in confirmed cases shall names of individuals be recorded.
• Confidentiality
While every effort shall be made to respect confidentiality, it may not be always possible to guarantee confidentiality in relation to drug-related incidents.
• Involving Parents/Guardians
Incidents involving any persons under 18 years of age will require their parents/guardians to be informed. Parents/guardians shall be invited to discuss what has happened and shall be informed of any course of action to be taken by the club. The Club Chairperson and Executive shall nominate a person to inform parents/guardians on a case by case basis.
• Garda Involvement
Incidents that involve the illegal supply of drugs shall require Garda involvement. In all other drug-related incidents, each case shall be considered on an individual basis and the decision shall rest with the Club Chairperson and Executive as to whether or not the police are involved.
• Search
The Club Chairperson and Executive retain the right to direct a search of any part of club property if there is reasonable cause to believe a substance in breach of this policy is contained therein. Two officials of the club shall be present during any form of search. Club Officials are not allowed to search an individual or their personal property. Where there is reasonable cause to believe a person has in their possession a substance in breach of this policy, they shall be asked to volunteer the substance. If they refuse, the Garda may be called in to conduct a search.
• Disposing of suspected illegal substances
If a suspected illegal substance is found on club property it shall be brought to the attention of the Club Chairperson. The substance shall be stored securely and the Club Chairperson shall then decide whether the Garda should be called to collect it, or whether it should be disposed of. Any disposal of suspected illegal substances shall be recorded and witnessed by two officials. At no time shall a suspected illegal substance be removed from club property by anyone other than the Garda.
• Availability, use and storage of solvents and gases
A large number of solvent based products have the potential to be abused (e.g. deodorants, paints, thinners, cleaning fluids etc). All solvent based materials and gases shall be stored securely and safely away from public access.
• Monitoring and Evaluation
This policy is in force at all times and during all activities under the aegis of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael. This policy shall be evaluated annually and after any drug-related incident. This policy shall be reviewed annually by the A.S.A.P. Committee in conjunction with the Club Chairperson and Executive.
Signed: Leo Coffey (Club Chairman)
Signed: Brendan Burke (Club Secretary)
Signed :Tom Cloonan (A.S.A.P. Club Officer)
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