Raising awareness around drugs and mental health in Kilkenny GAA clubs

Some of the country’s leading GAA stars were Kilkenny last Friday to speak out on mental health and addiction issues.

Former Limerick hurler and All-Star Ciaran Carey, who also works as an addiction counsellor and psychotherapist, spoke at a special community event, which took place at O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club.

The legendary GAA player was joined by another iconic sporting figure former Kildare footballer, Conor Harris. Conor spoke about his journey through life including his battle with addiction and mental health issues.

Sharp rise in health breaches at Irish food businesses 'should not be happening' - FSAI

A collection also took place on the night with all proceeds going to Kilkenny-based Teac Tom, a charity which provides mental health support and suicide intervention services to those in need.

A number of other Health and Wellness Evenings are planned for this month around the county with guest speakers with the talks starting at 7.30pm. On January 16 Conor Harris will speak at Muckalee GAA Grounds and he will also be the guest speaker at Mooncoin GAA Complex on January 18. Meanwhile Conor will be joined by former Olympian Kenneth Egan on January 23 at Clara Hall and Conor Harris will also be the guest speaker at the Black and Whites GAA Club in Skeoughvosteen on January 30.

Kenneth Egan is an Irish politician and amateur boxer from Clondalkin in Dublin and is best known for winning a silver medal in the final of the 81kg, Light-Heavyweight boxing final at the 2008 Olympics.

Conor Harris is a recovering drug addict and a former Kildare footballer who is now three years sober.

The events are organised by Kilkenny County Board, Kilkenny Joint Policing Committe, Kilkenny gardaí and Kilkenny GAA Clubs.