RUAN GAA DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY

    Cumann Lúthchleas Gael are committed as part of their overall philosophy to ‘discourage the misuse of drugs, alcohol and tobacco on the basis that they are incompatible with a healthy approach to sporting activity’.

All clubs under the Auspice of Ruan GAA believe that we need to create a safe and healthy club environment where members can develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to cope with drug and alcohol related issues.

All club members, officials, coaches and volunteers as part of all club’s under the Auspice of Ruan GAA 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. Good practise Guidelines will be dealt with in some field below.

    Definition of Drugs:      A drug is a substance taken by people to change how they think, feel or behave. For the purpose of this policy the term “drug” shall include all mood altering substances, both legal and illegal including substances such as:

1.      Alcohol

2.     Tobacco

3.      Prescribed drugs such as antibiotics, inhalers, painkillers etc. (all coaches will be made aware of children or young adults that are using prescribed drugs inc.      inhalers.  It is the duty of the parent to inform the relevant coach)

4.      Performance enhancing drugs as outlined by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

5.      Volatile substances such as aerosols, glues, petrol, cigarette lighter fuels etc.

6.     Products and substances sold online and in “headshops” that cause intoxication.

7.      “Over the counter” medicines such as paracetamol, anti-histamines, cough medicines etc.

8. Controlled drugs such as cannabis, ecstasy, amphetamines, magic mushrooms, cocaine, etc.

    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. This policy is a preventative policy and will act in the best interest of all members in particular children.

    Our objectives are:

1.      To develop a consistent approach to drug-related issues.

2.     To develop ways to address drug-related issues in the club.

3.      To establish clear procedures for managing drug-related incidents.


    List of Actions

    The Chairperson and Executive of the club shall adopt and discharge actions from following list as appropriate to the resources of the club. All clubs under the auspice of Ruan GAA shall endorse the following Actions:

1.      U18 Medal ceremonies shall be held in Toonagh/Ruan halls.

2.    A.S.A.P. to be on agenda at all Registration nights at all levels

3.      Alcohol advertisements are not allowed on club jerseys

4.      The cup shall not be filled with alcohol during celebrations.

5.      Coaches and Club Officials shall act in responsible manner around alcohol while representing their club at matches.

6.      Club members, officials, coaches and volunteers shall not present themselves at club activities while under the influence of any drug.

7.     Under 18’s shall not be brought to pubs on the way to or from matches, outings or training sessions.

    All persons associated with our club can help prevent drug-related harm from occurring during club activities.


    The following shall apply:

    Club Members:      Will be aware of the details of and adhere to this Drug and Alcohol Policy.

    Parents and Guardians:      Support the club in the development and implementation of this policy, including procedures for handling incidents of suspected drug misuse.

    Coaches:      Will be aware of the possibility of drug misuse among players and work with the A.S.A.P. Club Officer, Chairman and Executives with the aim of preventing harm.

    A.S.A.P. Club Officer:      The A.S.A.P. Club Officer is responsible for overseeing the development, implementation and evaluation of this policy in conjunction with the Club Chairperson and Executive. The A.S.A.P. Club Officer shall have good knowledge of the local drug, alcohol and health promotion services in order to assist the club in organising prevention, education and response activities as such needs arise.      The A.S.A.P. Club Officer is Francis O’Halloran.

    Club Chairperson (or Nominee): All relevant information, paraphernalia or suspected substances found or received shall be forwarded to the Club Chairperson who shall consult with the necessary parties (internal or external) before taking relevant action based upon this policy. 

 In the event of the Chairperson not being available to discharge these duties, the responsibility will then automatically fall to the Vice Chairperson or Secretary or other nominated person.