Pubdate: Sat, 05 Mar 2005 Source: Prince Albert Daily Herald (CN SN) Copyright: 2005 Prince Albert Daily Herald Contact: http://www.paherald.sk.ca/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1918 Author: Charlene Tebbutt ADDICTION STRATEGY IS GROUP EFFORT Local community members say they want a plan to deal with addictions that includes more than just jail time and hospital visits. About 20 people gathered at the City Police station Friday to talk about ways to deal with the level of drug and alcohol abuse locally, especially among youth. Members of the group say the cycle of jail and hospital visits is not enough to help those addicted to alcohol or drugs such as crystal meth. "It's just an ongoing cycle with no result," city Councillor John Swystun said at the meeting. Linda Nosbush, chairwoman of the addictions group and community research co-ordinator for a project called Understanding the Early Years, agreed. Nosbush, who is also an early learning consultant and is working on a crime reduction strategy for the city, said a comprehensive and integrated approach is the best way to ensure long-term success. "Substance abuse is a form of social decay," Nosbush said. "We want this (strategy) to be the whole community ... We're not trying to outdo each other." Those at Friday's meeting included concerned parents, emergency and police officials, health representatives, business owners and members of local service groups. They hope to create a plan that includes prevention, long-term detox programs, and recovery and integration resources to help addicted youth kick their habits for good. Members of the group have also met with Saskatchewan MLA Graham Addley, who was in Prince Albert Thursday. Addley was appointed legislative secretary to the premier on substance abuse prevention and treatment as part of the province's crystal meth strategy. City Police Chief Dale McFee, who attended Friday's meeting, said addictions are a growing concern for the police force. But, he said groups must work together to deal with the problem. "All levels have to be attacked at the same time," McFee said. "It's the collaborative approach that's going to be successful." With many people already on board, Nosbush said it's important for others in the community to get involved with the addictions strategy. Other community members, including parents, who want to participate in the group, can call Nosbush at 764-1571, ext. 244. "The hope is the community cares and the community wants to face its issues," she said. "It (addictions strategy) will transform us. We will be a different community if we do this well." - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin