CORONERS SERVICE RAISES ALARM OVER CRYSTAL-METH DEATHS

ABBOTSFORD - It is likely that most people know crystal methamphetamine is
simply not good for you -- and now, statistics from the B.C. Coroners
Service back that up.

The number of British Columbians who have died with methamphetamine in
their systems has more than doubled in the past year and because of the
drug's popularity, accessibility and cheap price, some feel the current
toll will continue to rise.

"I'm planning on bringing this up in the legislature later this week," said
Maple Ridge-Mission MLA Randy Hawes Monday.

"We need legislation on this . . . some debate would raise awareness of issue."

B.C. Coroners Service statistics show 33 people died in 2004 with
methamphetamine in their systems, compared to 15 in 2003, nine in 2002,
five in 2001 and three in 2000. Out of the 33 deaths, 29 were men and four
were women. Out of the 33 deaths in 2004, one took place in Abbotsford [12
took place in Vancouver].