Limerick colleges highlight dangers of drug-driving

THREE third-level institutions in the Mid-West are involved in a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs, among its students.

Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick (UL) and Technological University of the Shannon were involved with the initiative, along with the Mid-West Regional Drugs and Alcohol Forum, gardaí, Road Safety Authority and HSE.

There are about 30,000 students across the three institutions in the Mid-West and with the housing crisis, more and more students are driving to classes.

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“It’s important that they are aware of the roadside drug test and what it can mean for them if they take a substance and drive. Our main concern is about student safety and the safety of others, but it’s also about bringing awareness to the longer-term implications,” said Dr Eva Devaney, Healthy UL, Substance Use and Gambling, who took a lead role in the initiative.

Emily Rosenkranz, student welfare officer, UL told the Limerick Leader: “We want students to be aware that depending on the substance and the person, drugs can last in your system longer than you think. A drug driving conviction can affect you getting a visa to travel to some countries and future job opportunities."

"An immediate impact of a conviction is being put off the road for a year and may mean you can’t finish your college course”.