Traders pleased as Kells head shop closes its doors

The news that the Kells head shop has closed has been warmly welcomed in the town, where locals have been campaigning against the outlet since it opened earlier this year. Kells Town Council cathaoirleach, Brian Curran, said that, as a businessman and public representive, he was happy the shop had closed and he thanked the landlord of the premises who had worked with the local community to ensure the business's closure. Cllr Curran also contacted Supt Pat Collins and Sgt John Dwyer who had spoken at public meetings on this issue in recent weeks. He expressed concern about the young people who had been using the products sold in the shop. "I am aware of youngsters who were spending €60 to €70 a week on these type of substances and we have to ensure that the young people who became weekly users are helped," he said. "If you know somebody who has become dependant on these substances, it is important to direct them towards a doctor or some type of programme." Cllr Curran said it was important the local community didn't give up on its campaign against head shops, just because the Kells outlet closed. "We need to continue our opposition in order to prevent any similar businesses opening up elsewhere in the town and it is important for parents to remember that there are a number of outlets only 10 miles away in Navan." He highlighted the need for an awareness campaign to let young people see the dangers of the 'legal high' substances sold in these shops as well as the dangers of illegal drugs and solvent abuse. "We should have a series of meetings involving the HSE and the Gardai highlighting the danger of drugs within the community. People need to be very aware now in case these substances resurface in the community," he added.