South Mayo GAA club launches smoke and vape-free policy
HOLLYMOUNT Carramore GAA Club has launched its smoke and vape-free policy.
One of the aims of a smoke and vape ban is to denormalise the culture of smoking and vaping to young people.
Launching the initiative at the Hollymount community sports day was a nice reminder of positive role modelling for young people.
Hollymount Carramore GAA has a Healthy Club Committee, including membership from Hollymount LGFA, as part of the national GAA Healthy Club programme. The aim of the Healthy Club initiative is to transform clubs into hubs for health within their communities.
Tobacco smoking is the largest cause of preventable illness and death in Ireland, killing almost 6,000 people every year. Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, COPD, and a range of other diseases. It can also trigger serious asthma attacks in children and adults.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking but still not safe. E-cigarettes contain thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic.
While e-cigarettes may assist hardened smokers to quit, recent reports indicate an increased use of these devices among young people in Ireland is exceptionally alarming. Research by the Irish Health Research Board revealed that those who vape are five times more likely to start smoking cigarettes than those who never used e-cigarettes.
The GAA is the heartbeat of every community and this type of initiative will not only raise awareness but also protect people from second-hand smoke, reduce smoking initiation rates among young people, and increase the number of people seeking help to quit.
Said Jarlath Moran, Hollymount Carramore GAA chairperson: “I am excited and proud to announce that our club is now smoke and vape-free. Our club aims to support the young people in our community, and we believe this initiative sends a positive message to our younger players and supporters.”
The club is asking for the support of its members, local community, visiting teams and supporters to help them achieve their aim for a healthier club by following the new policy.
The sports day included races from Under 6 to Under 14, five-a-side soccer for national and secondary boys and girls, a fittest family challenge and tug of war. There were also activities for younger kids including bouncing castles, pony rides and face painting.
Croí were also on hand to give free blood pressure checks by a Croi nurse and other volunteers. The HSE provided Healthy Ireland goodies on the day.
The day was a huge success, with the crowds enjoying the day - you won’t want to miss it next year.
Quit Smoking West provides a free, accredited and approved service for those wishing to quit. Email Quitsmoking.west@hse.ie or call (091) 775485. This service is provided by the HSE Health Promotion and Improvement Department. The service provides free virtual, face to face or telephone consultations with clients who wish to quit smoking or vaping.