Pubdate: Fri, 03 Nov 2006 Source: Esquimalt News (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Esquimalt News Contact: http://www.esquimaltnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1290 METH USE ON THE RISE Education Minister Shirley Bond says more young people than ever are experimenting with crystal meth. "We know crystal meth use is a problem," Bond said. "Research shows that about five per cent of students in Grade 7-12 may have tried crystal meth. "Our government believes that one person using crystal meth is one person too many." She added that the province is working to give parents the information they need to talk to their kids about the drug. That's the reason the B.C. government has initiated a $3-million school-based program and public education campaign. A website at www.no2meth.ca features interactive games and activities, information on the effects and dangers of crystal meth, and how to help a child or friend who uses it. "These resources are just a few of the many ways government is delivering on its commitment to fight crystal meth use and to invest in B.C.'s children and future," said Bond. In 2004, B.C. became the first jurisdiction in Canada to announce an integrated crystal meth strategy. In 2005, the Province of B.C. created a Crystal Meth Secretariat to implement the strategy across government. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman