NATIONAL CAMPAIGN LOOKS TO CURB DRUG USE AMONG TEENS

The federal government's new national anti-drug strategy is an
important step toward building healthier and safer communities, says
Fredericton's police chief.

Barry MacKnight said police chiefs across Canada have been asking for
a national anti-drug strategy for many years.

"To see it coming to reality now is a great thing for all our
communities," said MacKnight, the chairman the Canadian Association of
Chiefs of Police Drug Abuse Committee.

The national anti-drug strategy is being promoted through an
advertising campaign.

It will initially focus on parents talking to their children about
drugs and then move into messages for youth aged 13-15.

A youth drug prevention for parents website (www.drugprevention.gc.ca)
has been set up to help parents connect with information about how to
talk to their children about drugs.

MacKnight said he's proud that police chiefs across Canada are working
with all levels of government to address the drug problem in a
balanced, rational and compassionate manner.

"Building safe and healthy communities is our No. 1 priority," the
chief said. "Our partnership with parents will be strengthened through
this campaign as we provide additional information, opportunity, and
even the inspiration to have conversations with our children about the
harmful effects of drugs."

Mayor Brad Woodside also welcome the drug message. He said youth in
Fredericton and across Canada need to hear this message about the
dangers of drugs.

"By all levels of government working together, we can make a
difference and get the message out to our children to help them make
wise decisions in their lives," Woodside said.