Once again the Ringsend and District Response to Drugs (RDRD) celebrated their annual ceremony in Clanna Gael Hall. The Lord Mayor Councillor Vincent Jackson officiated and congratulated the Board of Management and staff of RDRD on the quality of the service provided and their energy and dedication.

Seven participants received special awards in recognition of their recovery. Thirteen others graduated from the Drug Awarenes course and were presented with certificates by Jim Doyle of HSE. Dublin Port Company presented eight special awards to the family members in recognition of their support.

Teresa Weafer, Manager of RDRD, praised Dublin Port for their generosity in funding this event and also some of the programmes on offer. Tom Crilly, Chairman and Elizabeth Vice Chair of RDRD made presentations to Enda Connellan and Brenda Daly of Dublin Port in recognition of their valued involvement.

Tom Crilly made a special tribute to Charlie Murphy, Joe Grennell and Aileen Foran of Ringsend Action Project for their commitment and dedication to the service in the area. Tom also highlighted the ongoing and outstanding support for the project from St Andrews, the Gardaí, Ringsend Community Centre, Ringsend Training Workshop, Clanna Gael, ‘NewsFour’ and a number of local groups across the city.

A heartfelt drama piece highlighting the issue of grandparents was presented. In some cases grandparents are left to raise their grandchildren if their own children are struggling and affected by drugs. This gave a very strong message on addiction in the home and the ripple effect it has on the family.

It also highlighted the lack of support to grandparents dealing with the situation. The women presenting the play were magnificent and received a standing ovation. Special thanks are due to Robbie Byrne who facilitated the RDRD drama group.

Many quality services are provided to the community by RDRD with increasing community involvement. For further information on the programmes on offer please contact Teresa Weafer, Manager or Tom Crilly, Chairman at 6677666.

Main picture, left to right: Teresa Weafer, Enda Connellan, Brenda Daly, Tom Crilly and Betty Bissett.

Below: Participants who received special awards.