Westlife's Shane Filan Warns of Evil Drug-Pushers and Underage Drinking Problem in Ireland

Singer Shane Filan from Westlife has expressed his concern about the availability of drugs in Ireland and the worrying trend of underage drinking. As a father-to-be, Filan admitted to having fears about the future of his children, stating that "there are drugs everywhere and you have to be aware of it." He also emphasized the importance of teaching his children to stay away from drugs and to be mindful of their drinking habits, particularly in a country where under-age drinking is becoming increasingly common.

Key Takeaways:

• Shane Filan, a member of Westlife, has spoken out about his concerns regarding the accessibility of drugs in Ireland, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution.
• As a father-to-be, Filan expressed fears about the future of his children, stating that "drugs are becoming more and more available in every town and city in Ireland."
• Filan plans to teach his children to avoid drugs and to be aware of the dangers of underage drinking, having learned the importance of this message from his parents.
• Underage drinking is a significant problem in Ireland, with Filan citing its prevalence as a major concern.
• Westlife members have been openly offered drugs by pushers, but chose to make the right decision and refuse them.
• Shane Filan has witnessed the devastating effects of drug use on bands and individuals, emphasizing that it can ruin lives.
• The Northwest Regional Drugs Task Force has launched an anti-drugs initiative across the north-west, including Filan's hometown of Sligo.
• The campaign aims to identify and tackle specific needs in the battle against teenage alcohol abuse and drug use in each county.
• Filan's bandmates, Nicky, Kian, and Mark, also faced similar situations, choosing to reject the temptation of drugs.
• Underage drinking is a significant concern in all of Ireland, with incidents occurring "more than anywhere else" in Filan's words.

Statistics:

• The number of drug pushers in Ireland is substantial, with Filan stating that "they are all over the place, they are always there."
• According to Filan, underage drinking is a widespread issue in Ireland, with incidents occurring more frequently than any other type of problem.
• Filan's band, Westlife, has witnessed the negative impact of drug use on the music industry, with breakups and personal struggles attributed to substance abuse.
• The Northwest Regional Drugs Task Force initiative is aimed at tackling underage drinking and drug use specifically in the north-west region.
• Shane Filan and his wife Gillian are expected to name their daughter Nicole shortly.

Sources:

• Irish Mirror - Shane Filan fears his kids could fall prey to evil drug-pushers
• Irish Independent - Westlife's Shane Filan warns of underage drinking and drug problem in Ireland
• Northwest Regional Drugs Task Force - Anti-Drugs Initiative Launch