Irish bishops express concern at 'ever-increasing' use of cocaine

Published: 2007-12-10

DUBLIN, Ireland (CNS) -- The Irish bishops have expressed concern at "the ever-increasing use of cocaine throughout every village and town of our country." In a statement issued Dec. 6 at the end of their meeting in Maynooth, the bishops asked Catholics to join them in praying for those who have suffered because of the use of drugs. They also asked for prayers in support of agencies and volunteers who reach out to drug users and their families. "There is no such thing as a 100 percent safe use of any illegal drug," the bishops' statement said. "This is also true for the euphemistically termed 'social/recreational' use of cocaine or other stimulants. There are always high risks of overdose due to contamination, lack of tolerance to purity or the mixing with other drugs, especially alcohol." The bishops asked that those who may be faced with the option of using drugs during the Christmas season consider the choices they make, the risks involved, and the real harm caused to self and families.

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