CONGREGATION IN ANTI-DRUGS DRIVE

CHURCH members in east Belfast are taking the fight against drugs into their
own hands.

Members of Bloomfield Presbyterian congregation plan to put their anti-drugs
abuse message to the wider public.

A public information evening next week is to include details on the reasons
why children take drugs, and advice on the warning signs for parents to look
out for.

The church has appointed a full time project worker, Louise Kane, who is
experienced in youth work and has had her post funded by the church's board
of social witness.

Bloomfield Minister the Rev Mervyn Gibson said: "The potential for children
and young people to become involved in the drug scene is increasing, as drug
usage increases dramatically within Northern Ireland.

"Those being targeted by the dealers as drug users are becoming younger, as
dealers attempt to create markets for their trade. No community in Ireland
is immune from this evil trade."

Mr Gibson said the information evening, which is being held at Elmgrove
Primary School, Beersbridge Road next Tuesday, February 8 (8pm), could help
prevent a "lifetime of heartache" for families.