National Drug Council Releases 2022 Student Drug Use Survey Preliminary Results
The National Drug Council is releasing the results of the 11th cycle of the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey, which was conducted in 2022.
Caution for Apps for Alcoholism
Every April the National Drug Council joins the global community to highlight Alcohol Awareness Month to increase awareness and understanding of the causes and treatment of alcoholism. The impact of digital technology is a very hot topic, as we are seeing an abundance of apps recommended in the treatment of substance use. Technology therapeutic interventions or digital interventions (DI) are often self-managed interventions that individuals seeking treatment would access via a computer or smartphone. Research indicates that DI can be helpful when they are used as a complement to traditional treatment approaches. However, they are not recommended as stand-alone treatments. There are several benefits noted to using digital interventions that are heavily associated with seeking help and stigma: Apps can assist individuals in motivation by counting abstinent days and setting goals Participation in social media groups and peer chats for Alcoholic Anonymous Reduces the stigma associated with addiction by affording more anonymity Allows access to healthcare providers outside of geological areas using Telehealth, e-counselling, e-therapy, Zoom, FaceTime, and WhatsApp. [blockquote] “We are aware that there is a stigma attached to seeking help for alcohol. We are committed to working with schools, parents, law enforcement and treatment providers to ensure that the impact of alcohol on families is diminished,” [blockquote-footer] Says Brenda Watson, Director of the NDC. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] “We are aware that there is a stigma attached to seeking help for alcohol. We are committed to working with schools, parents, law enforcement and treatment providers to ensure that the impact of alcohol on families is diminished,” says Brenda Watson, Director of the NDC. This April let us take the challenge and do more to educate our communities about the treatment and prevention of alcoholism. If you or a loved one may be struggling with alcoholism, call us today at 949-9000 or visit our website at www.ndc.ky for a list of our partner agencies.
NDC’s National Drug and Alcohol Facts Month is back
The National Drug Council is happy to announce the 11th anniversary of the global campaign “National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week” (NDAFW). The National Drug Council will be hosting its month-long campaign on Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac beginning March 1 2021. [blockquote]”The campaign is for the community to be conscious of the risks of drug and alcohol misuse. Many people are not aware of the consequences, and those who do not abuse drugs, may have friends or family who do, and they are often looking for ways to help them.”[blockquote-footer]says NDC’s Acting Director Brenda Watson.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote][blockquote-footer]She also added, [/blockquote-footer]”Adults will have a chance to engage with experts and discover valuable information and skills in drug prevention and other issues that children or teens face today through a panel discussion. They will have a chance to hear the many myths about drugs and alcohol cluttering our popular culture.” [/blockquote] Below you will find the details of a workshop dedicated to adults and the competitions for primary and secondary schools. Adults NDAFM Chat Session – Panel Discussion on What’s Happening with Our Youth…Let’s Talk Youth, DRUGS & Parenting! – Experts in the Cayman Islands will answer questions and uncover facts about the brain and addiction, marijuana, vaping, and more. The conversation is aimed to equip parents, educators, youth workers and caregivers with valuable information and skills in drug prevention. Chat Days will take place via Zoom at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm on 15th & 17th March. Our social media pages and website will have the link for registration. Glow Walk – Cayman Brac – Glow the distance from The Alexander to Brac Reef and walk against drug and alcohol abuse. By taking part in our FREE Glow Walk, you will, together as a community, shatter the myths and raise awareness about the global drug problem. We’d love to see you all shine bright as you wear your glow accessories – fairy lights and glow sticks on March 27th. Beach Clean Up – Cayman Brac – Trash and can travel throughout the world’s oceans, accumulating on beaches and in the sea. This debris harms physical habitats, threatens aquatic life, and interferes with human uses of marine and coastal environments. Together we can be part of the solution, not part of the Brac’s pollution. Let’s clean up Long Beach on March 13th and see how many bags of alcohol containers or garbage we collect. Secondary Schools Alco-Art – is an awareness artwork competition for secondary school art departments. The contest is a creative and fun way focusing on the prevention of underage drinking and healthy alternatives to alcohol use. Each high school’s art department will create an art piece using bottles, cans, and beer caps to Shatter the Myths. Judging begins March 31, and the winner will be announced in April. Shatter the Myths Poster – This competition is part of a graded activity in specific schools. Submission deadline March 31. #mynaturalhigh IG competition – #mynaturalhigh contest begins at 9:00 a.m. on March 1st and ends at 11:59 p.m. on March 29th (“Contest Period”). All uploaded videos to Instagram must be set to public, then visit ndc.ky and submit the entry form to complete your entry. Primary Schools NDAFW Decorate a Door competition – is a health awareness campaign for primary schools. Together teachers and students will create a single door to represent their school. The contest is a fun and creative way for participants to show the importance of a healthy body and a healthy mind. Judging begins March 31, and the winner will be announced in April. [blockquote]”We at the National Drug Council of the Cayman Islands look forward to students, schools and the community’s continued support in taking part in the National Drug & Alcohol Facts Month competitions and activities.”[blockquote-footer]says Prevention Officer Delisa Hernandez.[/blockquote-footer][/blockquote] If you or your school is interested in taking part in the events or the panel discussion you can find all competition rules and guidelines on Facebook:@NDCCayman | Instagram:@ndccayman or www.ndc.ky on March 1. For further information, please contact the Prevention Officer Ms Delisa Hernandez at dhernandez@ndc.ky or the Prevention Specialist Mr. Simon Miller at smiller@ndc.ky.
Arrive Alive 345 Returns this Holiday Season
Hurley’s Media, in partnership with National Drug Council (NDC) and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS), has this week launched its annual Arrive Alive 345 campaign, designed to promote safety and reduce road incidents associated with the overindulgence or abuse of alcoholic beverages during the holiday season. This year the campaign celebrates its 20th anniversary and for the second year will combine three initiatives that highlight the overarching message – Arrive Alive, don’t drink and drive, take the online pledge, designate a driver and on New Year’s Eve, ride FREE. [blockquote]“This time of year is meant to be a joyful and relaxing time, however the holidays typically are accompanied by a large number of road incidents that could be avoided. The safety of members of the community is our paramount concern and so we are happy to be a part of the Arrive Alive 345 Campaign.” [blockquote-footer]said Brad Ebanks, Acting Superintendent of Police in charge of Uniform Services with the RCIPS.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The campaign will commence with the six-week Purple Ribbon Pledge, encouraging people to show their commitment to practicing safe driving by taking the online pledge not to drink and drive over the holidays or displaying a purple ribbon car magnet on their vehicle. This is followed by the Designated Driver program set to commence on December 1 whereby all participating bars and restaurants will be offering patrons who identify themselves as a designated driver free non-alcoholic drinks. Designated Drivers will also be eligible to win a prize in a weekly draw by entering a social media competition, with details to be announced on the Hurley’s Media Facebook page in the coming weeks. The Arrive Alive 345 Purple Ribbon Pledge campaign will end on December 31 with the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service, which sees over ten buses running between the hours of 9:00pm and 4:00am servicing all districts in Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, allowing patrons to ride home free. [blockquote] “We recognize the importance to keep riders safe. Therefore, we are taking the necessary safety precautions and have increased our buses to allow for social distancing on the buses during New Year’s Eve.” [blockquote-footer] said Delisa Hernandez, Prevention Officer at the National Drug Council. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] In 2019, the Arrive Alive 345 campaign saw zero DUI’s and no fatal crashes on December 31, and only two DUI’s were recorded on January 1 between the hours of 3- 4am. [blockquote] “In 2020, we hope we are able to further increase the use of the Purple Ribbon Bus and work with the public towards zero DUI’s on December 31 and January 1.” [blockquote-footer] said Ms Hernandez. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote] “Hurley’s Media are proud to be once again be a part of this important campaign in addition to the unfaltering support provided by the National Drug Council, Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and Radio Cayman.” [blockquote-footer] said Brydie Phillips, Marketing & PR Manager at Hurley’s Media. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote] “Along with the NDC and RCIPS, we urge the community to get behind this very important campaign to ensure everyone in Cayman gets home to their families safely this Christmas and New Year’s Eve.” [blockquote-footer] said Ms Phillips.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] This campaign was made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors: Jacques Scott, Britcay, Island Electronics, Kirk Motors Napa, Pestkil, Blackbeard’s, The Security Centre Limited, Davenport, Doctor’s Hospital, CIBC First Caribbean, National Roads Authority, DART, Flex, CUC, Rubis, Starbucks and Cel Beauty.
National Drug Council Officially Opens Brac Office
The National Drug Council officially opened its Cayman Brac office last week during a visit by Minister for Health, Environment, Culture and Housing, Hon. Dwayne Seymour. The office, which has been operating since last year, offers full-time services to all residents. Prior to the office opening last year, only limited services conducted by National Drug Council staff visiting from Grand Cayman were available to residents of the Brac. [blockquote] “I’m very pleased that we now have this essential office providing key services to the residents of Cayman Brac. The National Drug Council plays a crucial role in education and prevention of drug misuse and abuse, so the office is a vital resource on the island, particularly for our young people.” [blockquote-footer] said Mr. Seymour. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The office is run by Julianne Scott, who has returned to her native island after several years working on Grand Cayman. National Drug Council Director Joan West-Dacres and the five members of staff from the Grand Cayman office travelled to Cayman Brac for the opening reception on Thursday, 12 April 2018. Minister Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, MLA for Cayman Brac East, also attended the event, along with Ministerial Councillor Capt. Eugene Ebanks and Chief Officer for Health, Jennifer Ahearn, as well as members of the Brac community. Children from the Creek, West End and Spot Bay Primary Schools performed the national song for the gathering. The Ministerial party went on to visit the Department of Environmental Health, Faith Hospital, and the Mosquito Research and Control Unit in Cayman Brac, as well as the medical clinic and Department of Environment facility on Little Cayman during their two-day tour.
The Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) 2018 – CYCLE 9, Fieldwork Volunteers Required
Over the past 20 years the National Drug Council (NDC) has conducted the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS). This epidemiological survey gathers information about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse as well as prevalence rates among teens in the Cayman Islands. In preparation for the 9th Cycle, the NDC has scheduled the specific dates ranging from February 26th through March 16th, 2018 for the data collection and are in need of fieldwork volunteers to assist in this phase. The Cayman Islands Student Drug Survey (CISDUS) is an ongoing study of the behaviours, attitudes and values of high school students. This study describes the extent and patterns of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs used among students ages eleven and older across the Islands and contribute to a better understanding of both current and changing rates of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse. Are you interested and able to volunteer on this project? Volunteer involvement is essential in the administration process and we are in need of approximately 60 fieldwork volunteers to assist us in the collection of data efficiently and in accordance with best practices. Training is mandatory and will be provided for all volunteers by the Research Analyst and the Prevention and Information Officer. Interested individuals are asked to volunteer for approximately 1 ½ hours (or more) during the weeks of February 26th through March 16th, 2018. Ready to Register? To complete the registration process, please provide us with the registration form and a copy of a photo ID. Please contact us on info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000 for further information on the dates and times of training sessions.
Celebrate Safely this Holiday Season: Designate a Driver & Ride Free on the Purple Ribbon Bus
As we wrap up 2017 anticipating the celebrations with family and friends, The National Drug Council (NDC) wishes all a happy and safe season. We are delighted with the increased level of support garnered this year and the tremendous partnerships with our generous sponsors, in order to be able to offer the Designated Driver programme which runs from 1st December to 31st December and the Purple Ribbon Bus service for New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2017. This year marks seventeen (17) years since the inception of the campaign and the partnerships between the NDC and local organizations to provide the Designated Driver Programme and the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service, during the festive Holiday Season. This year we are pleased to announce that we have met our aim of increasing the number of participating bars, restaurants and clubs, providing the public with maps outlining the bus routes as well as mirroring this programme and service in Cayman Brac. Historically, thousands of revellers have utilized the designated driver campaign and the free bus service on New Year’s Eve, which was established with the aim of reducing the number of drink driving incidents on our roads. Despite the legislation, the increased patrols by the police and public education and awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a serious issue in the Cayman Islands. Before getting behind the wheel after having a few, we urge the public to consider the many reasons why you should not. [blockquote]“The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Inc. advise that alcohol is a depressant because it slows down the functions of the central nervous system. This means that normal brain function is delayed, and a person is unable to perform normally. Alcohol affects a person’s information-processing skills, also known as cognitive skills, and hand-eye coordination also referred to as psychomotor skills.”[/blockquote] Don’t ruin your holiday or that of someone else’s by driving drunk. Ride FREE this New Year’s Eve using the Purple Ribbon Bus NDC is once again pleased to announce that the Purple Ribbon Bus service will run this New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2017. There are currently ten (10) buses between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac which will ensure shorter wait times and more efficient service. The buses will run regular routes on both Islands with the hours of operation on Grand Cayman from 9 pm to 4 am and on Cayman Brac from 9 pm to 1 am. [blockquote][blockquote-footer]NDC’s Programme Manager, Brenda Watson expressed, [/blockquote-footer] “It is our hope to change the culture of our people to one where drinking and driving is no longer the norm, but rather a culture where we plan ahead and designate a driver, and on festive occasions such as NYE that the public utilises the FREE bus service.”[/blockquote] [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Director Joan West-Dacres states, [/blockquote-footer] “We are grateful for the continued support of some of our annual sponsors as well as the new sponsors and their pledge of financial support to ensure that the “Purple Ribbon Buses” are made available. This year we were pleased to announce the launch of this programme in Cayman Brac. Everyone looks forward to celebrating the holidays with family and friends but our celebrations shouldn’t include drinking and driving! Remember that preventing drinking and driving is everyone’s business and we all need to play our role. Be safe, don’t drink and drive!”[/blockquote] The Designated Driver and Purple Ribbon Bus campaign is made possible through the generous sponsorship of: Dart, Jacques Scott Group Ltd, Cayman National Bank, Maples FS, Cayman First Insurance, Greenlight RE, EcayOnline, Mourant Ozannes, Optimal Build Construction, Foster’s Food Fair – IGA, Radio Cayman, B.A.A.M., Pat’s Restaurant and Bar, Brac Power and Light, Star Island Restaurant, Hon. Mr. Moses Kirkconnell, Billy’s Supermarket and in partnership with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS). Designated Driver Programme 2017 This has been a momentous year for the campaign as we report 2017 as having had the largest number of restaurants, bars and clubs signing on in participation of the Designated Driver Programme as well as the extension of the programme in Cayman Brac. The programme itself is simple; persons who identify themselves as a Designated Driver to their server will be given a purple or turquoise wristband which will allow them to receive free non-alcoholic beverages all evening. [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Cayman Islands Managing Partner of Mourant Ozannes, Peter Hayden, stated: [/blockquote-footer] “Designated drivers play a key role in making sure the roads are safe for everyone. We are proud to support this great initiative once again and do our part to make sure everyone gets home safely this holiday season.” [/blockquote] The NDC is indebted to the number of participating establishments for their contribution to the safety and welfare of our communities and for doing their part to reduce drunk driving during this holiday season. The message is clear and simple: Don’t Drink & Drive – Designate a driver or ride FREE using the “Purple Ribbon Buses on New Year’s Eve”
More than 1,300 Students participated in the 2nd Annual International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Anti-Drug March
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) continues to lead the global campaign to raise awareness about the major challenge that illicit drugs represent to society as a whole, and especially to the young. The Cayman Islands joined the global community in commemorating the World Drug Day through hosting island-wide school marches leading up to and on the 26th of June 2017. This years’ theme is “Listen First: Listening to children and youth is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe, reducing risk behaviors and drug use”. The goal of the campaign is to mobilise support and inspire people to act against drug use by raising global awareness which sparked the efforts of a group of John Gray High School students last year. A student elected committee along with the Life Skills department organised the 1st Anti-Drug March incorporating the Art, Music and Media departments which brought that unique feel to the day’s event. [blockquote]“The School Based Drug Education Programme is offered through the school’s Life Skills course and in 2016 a group of year 10 and 11 students were inspired to bring awareness to the campaign through a whole school march” [blockquote-footer] stated Mr. Simon Miller, Prevention Specialist.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The expansion of this year’s event meant that approximately 5 High Schools and 8 Primary Schools participated which allowed for a true community effort. [blockquote]“Last year’s march was extremely successful so naturally we extended the offer for all high schools to participate in the second annual drug march and mini-conference, and would support any primary school who also wished to participate” [blockquote-footer] stated Mrs. Brenda Watson, Programme Manager.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Some of the positive outcomes of taking part in prevention programmes and campaigns include better school performance, less risky social behaviors, less substance abuse and less violent behaviors. The National Drug Council (NDC) along with the Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Community Footprints Organisation, other non-profit organisations, government, the private sector and volunteers, became involved in the 2nd annual drug march through: School-based drug prevention sessions and assemblies focusing on the theme Involving students in varying activities allowed for the students to create banners, flags, posters and crowns that depict meaningful and impactful messages An island-wide student-led anti-drug march Mini-conference encompassing presentations on the impact of drugs According to the 2016 Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey conducted among grades 7-12, about 75% of students indicated that their parents have talked to them about the importance of not using drugs and alcohol. The results also showed that of the students who choose not to use alcohol and drugs they identified their parents as having the most influence in their decision to remain drug-free. [blockquote]“We have to acknowledge the significant and influential role that our parents have in helping their children grow happy and learn to cope well in difficult life situations” [blockquote-footer] stated Dr. Susan Young, Prevention and Information Officer. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Spending just a small amount of time each day by giving your child your undivided attention through talking about the importance of avoiding alcohol and drugs as well as asking questions and listening attentively are some first steps. The NDC run Parents as Preventers programme is designed and aimed at helping parents to recognize and understand the effectiveness of active listening, talking and setting clear rules and reasonable consequences. The free sessions are available to parents of children of varying ages and can be run through our offices or school PTA’s. For more information please call the NDC at Tel. 949-9000 or e-mail: info@ndc.ky or visit us at www.ndc.ky . The NDC would like to thank all of its sponsors, partners and volunteers for their generous support.
TiPS trained Peanuts Red Bay and Seven Mile Beach gas stations
Working together to ensure the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcohol. Training for Intervention Procedures (TiPS) is the global leader in education and training for the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcohol. The National Drug Council (NDC) would like to applaud both Peanuts Red Bay and Rubis Seven Mile Beach and their management teams for being forward thinkers. The staff of both companies has completed a three-year certification programme designed to prevent intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving by enhancing the fundamental “people skills” of servers, sellers and consumers of alcohol. [blockquote]“We are delighted that both of these companies have taken the opportunity for training and equipping their employees with the skills necessary to be responsible servers in our communities. The National Drug Council’s mandate directs us to advise on law reform relating to the misuse of drugs and we will continue to advocate for legislation to be put in place that will require all persons who sell and serve alcohol to be trained and certified; as well as review the policies which are currently in place. Until then, we will continue to offer support to those who are interested in strengthening their organisations and businesses in whatever ways possible. Being a facilitator of TiPS places us alongside countries that recognise the importance and see the value of server training in the alcohol industry”, [blockquote-footer] stated Joan West-Dacres, Director of the NDC.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The National Drug Council provides training for: TiPS for On-Premise For servers at Restaurants, bars, hotels, in-store tastings, or other establishments where alcohol is consumed on the premises. TiPS for Off-Premise The sale of alcohol at grocery stores, liquor stores, convenience stores and package stores. TiPS Concessions For environments such as stadiums, arenas, theaters, concert halls, fairs, amusement parks and festivals. TiPS for the University Tailored for students at universities and colleges. TiPS for Seniors This programme focuses on the special challenges alcohol consumption can pose for the elderly. Public safety is a national responsibility, and collectively we can ensure that education and strategies are available. All TiPS certification programmes are currently voluntary and offered tointerested parties. Let’s work together to ensure public safety and the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcohol. The NDC is dedicated to providing resources and training for the responsible sale and service of alcohol. To learn more about TiPS, and arrange for your staff to be trained, please visit www.ndc.ky or call 949- 9000.
2016 Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) Results
The Cayman Islands Student Drug Survey (CISDUS) is a biennial survey of years 7 to 12 high school students conducted by the National Drug Council. The aim of the CISDUS is to identify the extent, patterns, and related attitudes of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs used among high school students across the Cayman Islands. The survey is administered to students who attend both private and public schools and the participation was approximately 2,982 students. The data collected allows stakeholders to make informed decisions in regard to policy adjustments and the allocation of resources for drug prevention and education programs. Preliminary results of students in years 7 to 8 are very positive. 75% of students have noted that their parents have talked to them about the importance of not using drugs and alcohol. 57% of students who do not use drugs identify their parents as having the most influence on students choosing to remain drug-free. Even though the majority of students (58%) indicated they had been taught about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs in school, many students (67%) felt there should be more educational classes about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. While the overall regular drug use is low in this age group12% of students in years 7 to 8 have used alcohol in the past 30 days. Notable findings within this age group indicate that alcohol use is significant compared to other drugs such as tobacco and marijuana. Of those students who consumed alcohol, parents are the main source of alcohol for this age group. Preliminary results of students in years 9 to 12 show a steady increase in the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs. High alcohol use among this age group is of concern as the results show 86 percent of students had used alcohol in their lifetime ranking alcohol as the number one drug of choice for teens. In regards to marijuana, 43 percent of students in years 9-12 reported having used marijuana in their lifetime in comparison to 5 percent of students who indicated daily use. In addition, student attitudes towards the risks associated with marijuana use varied. Half of the students felt there were very minimal to no risks associated with trying marijuana once or twice but do believe there is increased risk with smoking marijuana regularly. This may explain why student lifetime use is high among this age group compared to daily use. The use of electronic cigarettes is on a steady increase compared to regular cigarettes use which is showing a decrease. The top three drugs of choice among year’s 9-12 students are alcohol, e-cigarettes and marijuana respectively. These results are only a snapshot of the overall data findings of the 2016 CISDUS. We are currently disseminating the preliminary results to our stakeholders, school administrators, parents, students and the general public through a series of presentations. For our students, we have created a more infographic presentation which we hope will promote added awareness to all students. A more comprehensive report detailing the overall findings of the 2016 CISDUS is to follow within the next two months. It is remarkable that the great majority of parents are taking the time to talk to their children about the risk of using drugs; students have clear rules about alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs. Students are exposed to environments where they see that drugs are sold, have members in their families that deal with drugs and have family members with alcohol/drug problems. Communication and information will reduce the risk that children intent to try any substance. Schools were recognized as safe environments for the students. A significant percentage reported that like their school as well as schools are taking the time to present information to the students, through education programmes offered to students, teachers and parents by the National Drug Council. For information regarding the preliminary 2016 CISDUS results and briefs please contact the National Drug Council at 949-9000 or email: info@ndc.ky or visit us at www.ndc.ky.
Designate a Driver and Ride Home Safely on the Purple Ribbon Bus This New Year’s Eve
As we wrap up 2016 celebrating with family and friends, The National Drug Council (NDC) wishes each and everyone a joyous and safe festive season. We are pleased with the level of support garnered this year and the tremendous partnerships with our generous sponsors, in order to be able to offer the Designated Driver which runs from 1st December to 31st December 2016 and the Purple Ribbon Bus service for New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2016, from 9 pm to 3 am. This year marks sixteen (16) years since the inception of such partnerships between the NDC and local organizations to provide the Designated Driver Programme and the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service, during the Holiday Season. Over the years, thousands of revelers have utilized the free bus service on New Year’s Eve, which was established with the aim of reducing the number of drink driving incidents on our roads. In 2015 there were no reported incidents of drunk driving or related arrests made on New Year’s Eve. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Inc. advises that alcohol is a depressant because it slows down the functions of the central nervous system. This means that normal brain function is delayed, and a person is unable to perform normally. Alcohol affects a person’s information-processing skills, also known as cognitive skills, and hand-eye coordination, also referred to as psychomotor skills. Consuming alcohol prior to driving greatly increases the risk of car accidents, highway injuries, and vehicular deaths. The greater the amount of alcohol consumed, the more likely a person is to be involved in an accident. When alcohol is consumed, many of the skills that safe driving requires – such as judgment, concentration, comprehension, coordination, visual acuity, and reaction time – become impaired. Don’t ruin your holiday or that of someone else’s by driving drunk. Designated Driver Programme 2016 A significant number of local restaurants, bars and clubs have lent their support and will participate in the Designated Driver Programme this year. This programme is simple; persons who identify themselves as a Designated Driver to their server will be given a turquoise wristband which will allow them to receive free non-alcoholic beverages all evening. The NDC is indebted to the number of participating establishments for their contribution to the safety and welfare of our communities and for doing their part to reduce drunk driving during this holiday season. Any other establishments wishing to participate in the Designated Driver Programme should contact the NDC on 949-9000 to confirm their participation and request the purple wristbands. The Purple Ribbon Bus service is being made possible through the generous sponsorship of Dart, Jacques Scott Group Ltd, Cayman National Bank, Maples FS, Greenlight RE, EcayTrade, Mourant Ozannes, Foster’s Food Fair – IGA and in partnership with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS). The NDC is still seeking some additional support to ensure that there is a full complement of free buses operating beginning at 9 pm on New Year’s Eve. There are currently eight (8) buses secured with a goal of ten (10) buses which will ensure shorter wait times and more efficient service. The buses will run regular routes from West Bay through George Town and to the Eastern districts (Bodden Town, East End and North Side) hourly between the hours of 9 pm and 3 am. Thanks to a special arrangement with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, we have been able to increase the visibility of the Purple Ribbon Buses for 2016. Each bus will now have flashing purple lights placed on the dash ensuring that the buses will be easier to identify. Additionally, finding the routes is easy; all you have to do is scan the bar code below which will take you to the site and provide you with all the information you will need to arrive safely at your destination. [blockquote]“This is a FREE bus service, so whether you’re in George Town or West Bay, we anticipate having buses every 15 to 20 minutes, and for the Eastern districts every hour. Look out for a bus with purple lights, flag it down and ride for free! We are certainly very thankful to the RCIPS for granting permission for us to use the purple lights; this takes the service to a more highly visual level. Our buses will make continued stops at all bus stops, all major restaurants and bars , and we are encouraging residents and visitors alike to use this free and safe service,” [blockquote-footer] explained Mrs. Watson. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The message is clear and simple: Don’t Drink & Drive – Either designate a driver or use the “Purple Ribbon Buses” For more information, please call Brenda Watson of the National Drug Council on 949-9000. This New Year’s Eve, Don’t Drink & Drive. Ride FREE on the Purple Ribbon Bus
Designated Driver Programme 2016
The National Drug Council (NDC) and the Royal Cayman Islands Police (RCIP) in conjunction with ecaytrade.com, Radio Cayman, and Mourant Ozannes, have launched an enormous proactive anti-drunk-driving campaign this holiday season. The message is clear – Don’t Drink and Drive – designate a driver. This programme is simple; persons who identify themselves as Designated drivers to their server at participating restaurants can receive free non-alcoholic beverages all evening. Designated drivers will be given a wristband identifying them as the designated driver for the night. Forty-seven local restaurants, bars and clubs are participating in the Designated Driver Programme this year. The NDC is grateful for these participating establishments in doing their part to reduce drunk driving during this holiday season.