The ‘Let’s Talk About Drugs’ media awards are launched

THE effects of alcohol on the family and drugs on mental health are the two themes that will take centre stage for the 2015

‘Let’s Talk About Drugs’ National Youth Media Awards it was revealed last week.

The annual drugs awareness competition, which was officially launched by Minister for Heatlh, Leo Varadkar, aims to help students research and understand various issues relating to drug and alcohol use in Irish society.

The prizes for 2015 include iPad Minis and a cash award of

?¬2,000 for the overal winner.
The competition is supported by the Department of Health, the HSE, COSC, the Ana Liffey Drug Project, Healthy Ireland and Drugs.ie – Ireland’s National Drug and Alcohol information and support website.

Speaking at the launch, Director of the Ana Liffey Drug Project, Tony Duffin, explained some of the competition’s benefits.

“This competition offers participants the opportunity to creatively use digital tools to present issues relating to drug and alcohol use from their own perspective,

? he said.

“The awards are a great opportunity to recognise and reward young people who are passionate about using digital content to relay their message.

“I am looking forward to seeing what messages are highlighted by the many entrants and I wish everyone the best of luck!

?

Minister Varadkar said he was delighted to launch the 2015 awards.

“These awards give young people an opportunity to discuss issues around alcohol and drugs through a range of media,

? he said.

“Targeting young people with prevention in mind, and highlighting
the dangers of substance abuse, are some of the most important things we can do.

?

To enter, students are asked to create a short video, an audio clip, a news article or a poster on either the effects of alcohol on the family or the effects of drugs on mental health.

The age categories for entering are 12-14; 15-17; 18-21 and 22-25.
Winners from the four age categories will receive an iPad Mini and the overall winner will get the cash prize of

?¬2,000. Winners will also have their work published on drugs.ie.

The closing date for entries is February 16 2015 and the awards ceremony will take place in April 2015. For full competition details, examples of previous winners visit drugs.ie/awards