Deputy Sherlock said he is delighted to have been asked to speak at this event given the pro-active engagement young people in the locality have taken with the project.

"The local Youthreach group, along with the three secondary schools in Fermoy, have carried out extensive surveys on young people's attitudes to drugs. It is very positive that these young people, who are often castigated in the media for anti-social behaviour, are taking centre stage in tackling the issues at hand," he said.

Deputy Sherlock added that in light of recent media reports focusing on the rise in 'head-shops' the event is very timely

"There will also be a number of stands on the nights where guests can interact with the different agencies involved with drug awareness. I know that many parents and guardians have questions with regard the use of drugs but are unsure where they can get answers. I hope that the people of Fermoy and the local region will recognise this positive attitude as displayed by those involved by showing their support on the night and I believe this project will prove to be as educational as it is encouraging for all concerned with drug awareness in North Cork," asserted the Labour TD.