11 May 2005

Destiny New Zealand to Participate in Drug Forum - Otago University

Destiny New Zealand Policy Director, Mr David Jesze, will represent the party at a forum discussing "Prohibition of Cannabis - weighing the costs and benefits" being organised by NORML Dunedin. The event will commence at 6pm at Otago University this Friday. "Destiny New Zealand's position on illicit drug activity is very clear. Drugs wreak havoc in our communities and have destructive consequences for the individual, the family, the community and our economy. Drug dealers should feel the full force of the law, and drug offending - no matter how minor, must be taken seriously.

Having stated that, the strongest proactive measure is for parents to lead by example and by educating their children of the inherent dangers of drug use" says Jesze. The party recognises illicit drugs as the invisible giant behind volume crimes such as burglary, violence and dishonesty offences.

To that end, Destiny New Zealand will (1) launch a Commission of Enquiry to examine organised crime with a view to establishing a National Strategy to confront organised crime and the drug trade epidemic head on, (2) support 'asset seizure' legislation (Proceeds of Crime Bill) to seize assets from people who have benefited directly or indirectly from crime and (3) support longer sentences for convictions of trafficking methamphetamines and precursors.

"Instead of quoting statistics that can be used to prove any viewpoint, my contribution to this forum will come from the perspective of a father, who is concerned about the increasing drug abuse in our country and the consequences for my children and the younger generations", he added.

ENDS

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