Pubdate: Mon, 26 Jul 1999
Source: Australian Associated Press (Australia)
Copyright: 1999 Australian Associated Press

CARR ANNOUNCES MORE ANTI-DRUG INITIATIVES

Drug users seeking to join a methadone program will have to sign a treatment
contract under plans announced by the New South Wales Government today.

The move to strengthen the administration of the state's methadone program
is part of a $158 million package of anti-drug initiatives planned for the
next four years.

Under the contract, addicts will be given methadone if they agree to
regulations such as turning up at clinics at specified times.

The government is tightening up methadone services following community
criticism of current practices.

Health Minister Craig Knowles said the contract between the user and the
administrating hospital would force recovering addicts to play a significant
role in their rehabilitation.

"There are no free rides," Knowles said.

NSW Premier Bob Carr said the money announced today represented a funding
increase of one-third, with an emphasis on detoxification and treatment
programs.

"The new money will allow us to treat an estimated 23,450 people over the
next four years," Carr said.

More than $49 million of the funds will be spent on tightening up methadone
services. 

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