This research was undertaken by the Enniscorthy Community Based Drugs Initiative (CBDI) to form an action plan based on the needs of the young people in the area. Both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (focus group discussions) were used to ascertain the extent and nature of the drug and alcohol misuse among second level students aged 12-16 years in Enniscorthy. It also aimed to find what services were available and known to young people and to learn the recreational needs of youth in the area.

The results came from 489 questionnaires, with 46% male and 54% female. For alcohol use, 82% of males and 83% of females had taken alcohol, with 25.8% drinking regularly. 16% reported substance misuse, with cannabis the most widely taken drug. Of those that take drugs, 21% do weekly, and 61% of those who drink alcohol weekly also use drugs weekly. When questioned about support, 34% of young people seek support from parents if they or a friend had a problem with alcohol or drugs; however 45% would not seek help, either through embarrassment or fear of parent's reaction. The report recommends raising awareness regarding prevention, crisis intervention and safer behaviour and the establishment of youth clubs and a juvenile liaison officer and a Garda juvenile diversion scheme to be based in Enniscorthy.