Pubdate: Tue, 14 Nov 2000
Source: Belfast Telegraph (UK)
Copyright: 2000 Belfast Telegraph Newspapers Ltd.
Contact:  http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/
Author: Kathryn Torney, Education Correspondent

'CHILDREN AGED 10' TAKE DRUGS

CHILDREN as young as 10 are experimenting with drugs in Northern Ireland 
while other youngsters are getting involved in dealing, it was claimed today.

Gerry McConville, project co-ordinator with the YouthDrug initiative in 
west Belfast, said cannabis was now a "massive, massive problem", with some 
children smoking joints during breaks between classes.

The Department of Education is so concerned it has asked all schools in 
Northern Ireland to review their drugs education policies.

"The age that young people are taking drugs is going down dramatically," 
said Mr McConville.

"Drugs have dropped in both price and quality which makes it easier for 
children to afford them.

"I have dealt with some young people taking blow before school, during the 
breaks, after school and at night.

"That means that, as well as excessive use of the drug, they also cannot be 
concentrating in school."

The latest research showed that 23% of 11- to 16-year-olds had been offered 
drugs.
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