On 14th March 2024, we hosted the impactful event “Vaping: Leadership and Learning for a Whole School Approach.” This event, a beacon in the journey of awareness and change, threw light on the intricate issue of vaping, particularly in the youth demographic.
James Lawless TD, Chair of the Oireachtas Justice Committee, initiated the dialogue by outlining the government’s standpoint on vaping among young people. His insights revealed the necessity of robust policies and educational frameworks to mitigate the rising trend of vaping in schools.
Martina Blake from the HSE’s Tobacco Free Ireland Programme, then took centre stage to expand on the elusive dangers lurking within e-cigarettes. Her talk unmasked the hidden constituents like heavy metals and carcinogens. Blake also exposed the tobacco industry’s underlying agenda in driving the e-cigarette market, raising critical concerns about their impact on public health.
Joe Leonard, representing the National Association of Principals and Deputies, brought to light the alarming issues vaping poses in educational settings. His insights were pivotal in understanding the need for immediate and effective interventions in schools.
The event culminated with the launch of the ‘Vaping is Bad’ posters, a crucial initiative focusing on the diverse detriments of vaping, including harm to lungs, environmental impacts, financial burdens, and mental health challenges. This campaign reiterated the complex connections between substance misuse and societal issues, a topic often overlooked yet profoundly relevant in today’s context.
The seminar not only informed but also inspired action, aligning with SWRDATF’s vision of creating informed communities. The takeaway was clear: awareness, coupled with strategic leadership and learning, can pave the way for a healthier, vape-free generation.
Poster Downloads
Vaping is bad for your Mental_Health
