BY ALAN RODGERS

A.RODGERS@GAELICLIFE.COM

SOME of Ulster's leading players are backing the GAA's attempts to reduce the harm caused by alcohol and other drugs which is now being promoted throughout the country.

Four new resources to help GAA clubs implement the so-called ASAP programme took place yesterday. They include a specially commissioned DVD, the launch of a website, the publication of the second edition of the Programme Manual and a new Telematics Project.

GAA President Nickey Brennan was accompanied at the launch by Minister of State Pat 'The Cope' Gallagher and Catherine Murphy from the Health Services Executive.

In Ulster ASAP officers have been appointed in each of the nine counties under the guidance of Aileen Tohill of the provincial council. And, their efforts have been boosted by messages of support from many of the top hurlers and footballers.

Down's Dan Gordon, Antrim hurler, Karl McKeegan, Philip Jordan of Tyrone, Ciaran Hanratty from Monaghan, Donegal's Karl Lacey, Paddy Bradley of Derry and Cavan sharpshooter, Seanie Johnston, are among those who are hoping that the new scheme will make progress.

Through an internet video message, the players from every county aim to engage with young people about drug and alcohol related issues, enlighten them about the risks, inspire them to change risky behaviour and provide information professional and local services.

Each club in the country is currently being encouraged to develop a Drug and Alcohol policy using the resources available.

Among them is an extensive manual designed to be a resource for people at all levels of the Association who want to know how to respond to alcohol and drug-related problems that may occur at club or county level.

Speaking at the launch, GAA President, Nickey Brennan, said the support of the HSE and the Department of Health and Children has been invaluable in the development of the programme and together we hope that we can influence our members to pursue healthier lifestyles in the future. while Catherine Murphy, Assistant National Director of Population Health, Health Promotion at the HSE said participation in sport or physical activity may or may not lead to other healthy behaviours.

International best practice in the field of health promotion has shown that initiatives targeting settings where people live, work and play have the potential to reach a wide number of people and encourage healthy choices," she added.

The HSE's partnership with the GAA in the roll-out of the ASAP programme is an excellent example of this, by working closely with a sporting organisation which plays a significant role in the lives of many Irish people drug and alcohol related issues can be addressed in a way that far surpasses normal everyday reach."