Released on February 9, 2005
The government's crystal meth strategy has been released. Health Minister John Nilson highlighted details of the report called A Strategic Plan for Crystal Meth and Other Amphetamines in Saskatchewan.The plan identifies four key areas of strategic focus: prevention; treatment; education; and reducing the drug supply. It outlines 25 key actions for each of these four areas and provides examples of the many current initiatives already underway throughout the province as well as new initiatives that will be implemented soon.
The new initiatives are part of a comprehensive alcohol and drug strategy being developed by Saskatchewan Health. Key new activities to be implemented are:
·Additional youth stabilization services to provide a safe place where youth may withdraw from alcohol and drugs and stabilize physically, emotionally and socially;
·More "brief" detox services that provide safe places for short-term stays to stabilize from serious drug abuse;
·Mobile treatment operations to meet the needs of northern communities;
·Community outreach centres to meet the needs of "street youth" and families with children who have serious substance abuse issues; and
·A media campaign to raise public awareness.
Details such as location and service delivery will be determined through consultation with regional health authorities, service providers and community groups in the coming months.
"We continue to listen to the concern voiced by citizens about the issue of crystal meth in this province," Nilson said. "We have taken a co-ordinated and integrated approach in our response to crystal meth and other substance abuse. This document highlights the good, effective work that is happening in Saskatchewan through the collaborative efforts of several government departments, health regions, schools, professionals, communities and families. But it also identifies that more needs to be done."
The plan recognizes a continuing need to plan and adapt tactics to ensure that the issue of crystal meth drug abuse is dealt with in a thoughtful, realistic, and affordable manner. The recent appointment of Graham Addley as Legislative Secretary to the Premier on substance abuse and prevention creates an opportunity to look forward and examine other options to expand and improve existing initiatives.
"This document outlines a practical approach to the issue of crystal meth and other addictions in this province," Graham Addley said. "In consultation with others, I will build on these ideas and recommend further action based on best practices and the most current research."
Copies of the strategy may be found at www.health.gov.sk.ca
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For More Information, Contact:
| Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083 Email: jargue@health.gov.sk.ca |