Heartbroken parents whose son took own life tell drug dealers to ‘get out of town’
'HAD ENOUGH' | Mr Carlin said the people of Strabane have had enough and that “drug dealers should pack up and go”.
A father who lost his son to suicide has raised £80,000 over the past year thanks to the support of the local community in Strabane, Co Tyrone, and people across Northern Ireland.Rory Carlin died a year ago with his family saying he took his own life due to drink and drugs addiction.His father Dominic Carlin has since urged drug dealers to leave the town and encouraged anyone suffering from mental ill-health to reach out for help.Fundraising efforts for the Rory Carlin Memorial Fund culminated in hundreds of runners, walkers and supporters travelling from Strabane to Belfast to take on the Belfast City Marathon to raise funds for The Koram Centre.The centre provides counselling services to people suffering from mental health issues in the Strabane area.May 7 marked the one-year anniversary of Rory’s death and a Mass was held at St Mary’s Church Melmount on Tuesday evening.People from the Strabane community came out in force to support the Rory Carlin Memorial FundMr Carlin said the people of Strabane have had enough and that “drug dealers should pack up and go”.He explained: “The struggles that our town is having with mental illness, addictions and suicides are plain to see.“I know too well the heartbreak that comes with it. It’s not only happening in Strabane but in every town and village across this island.“I want to thank the people of Strabane who have rallied around in support of my family over the past year since we lost our beloved son Rory to the harrowing effects of addiction.“The images of everyone in their blue T-shirts in memory of Rory, standing outside City Hall and Stormont, send a clear message. We have had enough.“The only motive drug dealers have is to drive misery and fear into our communities.“Drug dealers have no place in our local area.”From left, Rory, Ryan, Karen, Dominic and Shane CarlinAccording to the latest figures from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency from 2022, there has been a 40% increase in the number of drug-related deaths over the last 10 years.Mr Carlin added: “There is an onus on political leaders to call out the destruction drug dealers are leaving behind and for the police to act to hold those responsible accountable.“I am calling for extra vigilance from our local bars to ensure their premises offer a safe space.“There are drugs everywhere and sadly it leads to mental health issues. I would appeal to the young people — please say no to drugs.“Drugs will ruin your life. It will ruin your family’s life.“If you are struggling please reach out and talk to someone. Your life matters.”The Koram Centre can be reached on 028 7188 6181 and Samaritans by phoning 116 123
