CHILDREN AS YOUNG AS 10 ON CANNABIS

CHILDREN as young as 10 are being busted for having cannabis stashes
in North Wales, the Daily Post can reveal.

Over the past two years police have hauled in youngsters aged under
14 for drug offences including dealing cannabis and possession of LSD
and ecstasy.

But drug and alcohol workers said the number of arrests logged were
just the tip of the iceberg - and many more cases were going undetected.

North Wales drug and alcohol help service Cais said it was important
to hammer the message home that drugs are dangerous and can damage a
child's life and society.

Figures show nearly 30 youngsters aged under 14 were arrested for
possessing and dealing illegal drugs from April 2005-March 2007
across North Wales.

The youngest was a 10-year-old caught with cannabis, details released
under the Freedom of Information Act revealed.

And an estimated 40 youngsters under 15 were treated for booze
problems in the 12 months up to March 2007.

Yesterday Mike Denman of Cais said: "Drugs is a serious concern, but
the major concern is alcohol abuse.

"The change of classification of cannabis from a Class B drug to a
Class C drug was a major mistake by the Government.

"It created a perception that maybe cannabis is safe - it isn't.

"People who are young are more susceptible to psychosis and when
cannabis is introduced it can exaggerate the effects of psychosis.

"We now also have more stronger forms of cannabis out there such as skunk.

"Young people are also less tolerant of alcohol and its effects than adults.

"It can cause serious liver damage and has long-term health
implications and there are a lot strong alcoholic drinks on the market.

"Alcohol is also responsible for a lot of anti-social behaviour among
youngsters and can contribute to teenage pregnancy with youngsters
less inhibited and not taking precautions."

Education campaigns in North Wales schools are under way involving
Cais and North Wales Police to deter youngsters from getting involved
in drugs and booze.

Mr Denman added: "We broadened out our campaign in schools from
warning children not to go near needles to the dangers of drug abuse."

NWP chief constable Richard Brunstrom sparked controversy arguing
drugs should be legalised.

But he has insisted that while they remain illegal the law will be enforced.

Inspector Tony Wan said: "Offences involving the possession of
cannabis are increasing. Cannabis cultivation also appears to be on
the increase."