A prepaid Recreation Card for teenagers in Ireland could help to reduce cannabis use
A study of teenagers in the West of Ireland by UCC in conjunction with the Department of Public Health found cannabis use is more likely among teens not involved in extracurricular activities
Authorities in Iceland introduced a prepaid Recreation Card which increased the number of teens involved in sport and artistic pursuits and reduced cannabis use
Study Lead and UCC based Dr Peter Barrett told RedFM News a similar scheme here would remove financial barriers and could help delay or prevent substance use
"Obviously we want to prevent substance use, but at the very least, we need to delay it. The earlier you start using cannabis, the higher your risk of developing a range of physical health problems, mental health problems and issues with addiction in later life. I do think the subsidised leisure card could be part of the solution here.
