Media Statement

9 July 2013

Psychoactive Substances Should be Banned – Manurewa Local Board

The Manurewa Local Board last night passed a notice of motion opposing the 'high zone' store in Manurewa town centre from being granted a licence to continue to operate and voted to support further legislitive change to ban all 'legal highs'.

Manurewa Local Board Member Simeon Brown said that psychoactive drugs were “despicable products produced by commercial exploiters who are seeking a quick dollar while ignoring the long term impact that these substances have on the impact of the health of those who take them.”

“This continues the advocacy that the Manurewa Local Board on this issue so that we can drive these substances out of our community using every legal means while also calling for the complete ban of these substances.” Says Mr Brown.

“Medical experts have been very clear that they are unsure what the long term harmful health impacts of these substances are, therefore we should be very wary of any of the markets which are being sold or may be sold in the future if approved.”

Manurewa Local Boar Chair Angela Dalton said this issue is of particular concern to Manurewa residents who have protested against this store lobbied the Associate Minister of Health.

"Hundreds of Manurewa residents protested outside this store on the 11th of May this year after it was opened. Thousands signed a petition opposed to this store." Ms Dalton said.

"The Manruewa Local Board is committed to supporting the voice of our community and advocating against these substances.

Manurewa Local Board Member Ken Penney who is also the Chair of the Manruewa Business Association said these substances did nothing to promote a positive image of the Manurewa Town Centre.

"Auckland Council must urgently implement a Local Approved Products Policy so that we can stop these drugs being sold near our churches, community halls and facilities, schools and kindergartens." Mr Penney said.

"We need to do all we legally can to drive these drugs out of our community.

The Manurewa Local Board is holding a public meeting on Wednesday the 14th of August to discuss the implications of the new legislation and what can be done by Auckland Council to further address the sale of psychoactive substances. The meeting will be held at 1pm at the Manurewa Library Community Room. All are welcome.

ENDS

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