Roscrea Stands Up meeting outlines progress.

Plans are afoot for a one stop shop in Roscrea to cater for a wide variety of local needs from counselling to recreation to employment.

It's one of a number of initiatives that the local community are trying to establish as they battle back against drugs, anti social behaviour and joblessness in the area.

At their latest meeting last night members of Roscrea Stands Up outlined progress on a number of fronts from a recent meeting with the Justice Minister to proposals for a scholarship programme for young people.

One of the major proposals being worked on is a One Stop Shop in the town to help tackle the core issues.

Spokesperson Derek Russell said they are formulating a plan but it will require the backing and financial support of everyone.

Environment Minister Alan Kelly – who attended last night's gathering along with various other local politicians – pledged as much government support as he could for the various initiatives.

The meeting was told that the IDA had virtually ruled out attracting outside investment but Minister Kelly feels the development of the Benamore site could change this.

A number of people spoke passionately about the need for drug awareness and sporting initiatives for young people

The meeting was also informed that a number of high profile sporting figures were backing the movement including well known soccer star Shane Long from Gortnahoe, former hurler Nicky English and rugby star Paul O'Connell.