City tree lighting event sends message of hope

MEMBERS of a Northside community gathered on December 8 in the north inner city to remember those who have died from drug-related causes. 

Taoiseach Enda Kenny was among those who attended the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree at the junction of Buckingham Street and Killarney Street, Dublin 1.  

This is a junction that was colonised by drug dealers. 

The tree was erected by Dublin City Council in 1995 at the request of Inner City Organisations Network (ICON) as a message of defiance, hope and in commemoration of all those who died from drug addiction. 

It is a symbol of hope for the community and particularly for the young people affected by drug abuse.

The tree is a symbol of support to all the families who have lost children, brothers, sisters and parents to substance misuse. This year the event organisers acknowledged the progress that has been made through services that support families that have been affected and continue to be affected by this issue.

The event is a reminder of the extent of the suffering that people from the north east inner city have experienced. 

Speaking at the event, Louise Rafferty said: “The support I got from my family and the community was what helped me through this time in my life. The only way we can move forward is with this kind of support. 

“Tonight, I should be one of those stars on the tree but I thankfully got help and support. I am proof that change is possible.”

Carina O’Brien, co-ordinator of ICON, which was established in 1993,  said: “Since the establishment of the Drug Related Deaths Index in 2004 there has been over 50 per cent of an increase in drug and alcohol related deaths and in August of this year in one week alone, three local families had to access a bereavement grant from the Family Support Network.

The event marks the continued loss and hurt we have experienced in our families and communities and again reminds us that when we stand together with purpose we can find ways beyond the destruction of drugs and violence.”