Media Release
08 October 2003

Time For Action On P

New Zealand First is demanding the Government take urgent action to tackle the P epidemic that is rapidly spreading through New Zealand.

“The time for pouring money into researching the problem has passed. The facts on methamphetamine are clear,” said New Zealand First youth affairs spokesperson, Craig McNair.

“We already know that it is a drug that can cause the user to experience dangerous psychotic episodes, which has been evidenced in the role P has played in some of New Zealand’s more violent crimes in the last few years,” said Mr McNair.

“It has permeated all spheres of our society from the gangs, to the nightclubs, to white collar workers, and it is highly addictive.

“It is one thing for the Government to have an action plan due for implementation next year but this does little to reassure the parents of a 14 year old addict who have nowhere to take their child today.

“Community treatment facilities throughout the country are stretched to their limits and users desperate for help are being placed on month long waiting lists.

“The Government must act now in the war against P,” said Mr McNair.

ENDS

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