MP STEPS UP PUSH FOR SCHOOL DRUG TESTING

DRUGS campaigner and Upper House MP Ann Bressington is stepping up
her push for random drug testing in schools.

She flew to Melbourne today for talks with two private colleges that
have already introduced drug-testing of students.

Ms Bressington has a private member's Bill before the Legislative
Council that provides for compulsory testing twice yearly for
students aged more than 14.

Students who refused tests could be suspended for up to five days
and reports on tests would be provided to parents.

"The reaction from parents has been overwhelmingly positive and
supportive in SA," Ms Bressington said.

"However, there are a few checks and balances I would like to ensure
will be included in the legislation to protect the rights of
students and parents alike.

"The schools I am visiting have had school drug testing policies in
place for several years now and both parent and school communities
have welcomed and embraced the spirit behind such a move."

Ms Bressington said there was a need to move past our resistance to
change for the safety and protection of children.

She also said there was new testing technology available that would
dramatically cut the cost for the Government and which was far more
accurate than mouth swabs.

Ms Bressington said a new skin testing technology had FDA approval
and was already being used in workplace drug testing in Australia.

"It is non-invasive and the possibility of a false positive reading
is eliminated with this test," she said.

Ms Bressington's move has already been rejected by the Government,
the Greens, the Democrats and school organisations.