PLAN TO REVIEW DRUG USE IN SCHOOLS ENDORSED BY COUNCIL, POLICE BOARD

Delta council and the Delta police board have endorsed a plan by
Deltassist to conduct a review of drug use, in particular crystal
methamphetamine, in Delta schools.

Julie Chadwick of Deltassist's youth substance use committee said
crystal meth is not a major problem in Delta yet.

"We'd like it to remain that way," Chadwick told councillors last
week.

Of the 200 youths who have used Deltassist services, only four have
been addicted to crystal meth.

Chadwick, however, said there is no baseline data available to develop
a clear understanding of the scope and type of substance abuse in
Delta, including that of crystal meth. Such information would help
Deltassist to develop an efficient and effective community-wide
response to meth and other substance use in co-ordination with the
Fraser Health Authority, she said. Chadwick said the drug is highly
addictive and can be attractive to youths as an appetite suppressant.