Pubdate: Wed, 04 Jan 2006
Source: Mayerthorpe Freelancer (CN AB)
Copyright: 2006 The Freelancer
Contact:  http://www.mayerthorpefreelancer.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/733
Author: George VanderBurg, MLA Whitecourt - Ste. Anne Constituency

PROVINCE BATTLES IN THE DRUG WAR

A Sustained Battle Against Crystal Meth

Alberta has taken a big step in what will be
a sustained battle against crystal meth, one of the world's most
addictive drugs and one of the toughest addictions to treat.

Seven weeks ago, I wrote about the task force that will be leading
Alberta's actions against this destructive drug that has an effect on
every Albertan regardless of whether or not we have even come in
contact with it as everyone pays the price for extra policing, health
care costs, and social supports for addicts and their families.

We have now restricted the sale of one of the main ingredients used in
the production of crystal meth by amending provincial regulations and
we hope that this action will go a long way towards reducing its
production and use.

Two of the primary ingredients used in the production of crystal meth
are ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, medications used to treat sinus
congestion. Many ephedrine products already require a prescription to
obtain them, and effective immediately, single-entity pseudoephedrine
will be reclassified and placed behind pharmacy counters under the
supervision of pharmacists.

We've made this move to fight crystal meth without unnecessarily
limiting access to medications that Albertans may rightfully need as a
number of cold medicines do contain pseudoephedrine as an active
ingredient. These cold products will still be available on shelves as
they contain limited amounts of pseudoephedrine and it is far more
common, and easier, to produce crystal meth from a single-entity source.

Alberta continues to lead the fight against crystal meth and other
drugs. Over the last year, the province has opened 24 new detox
residential treatment beds for youth affected by crystal meth;
launched the task force that will coordinate government and
community-based actions against crystal meth; and increased funding to
the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission by 12 per cent,
including $4.2 million to establish new youth detoxification and
residential treatment services.

Western Canada is united in this battle. Alberta, British Columbia,
Saskatchewan and Manitoba have now all imposed restrictions on the
sale of ingredients used in the production of this terrible drug.

Our province's future lies in the hands of our youth and it will
continue to be a priority for our government to take a stand against
crystal meth. As your MLA, I will do everything I can to support
further steps in the battle against this drug.

Visit www.aadac.com for information about our province's fight against
crystal meth and call (780) 415-9473 if you want to discuss any
provincial matter. 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake