MILLIONS UNLEASED TO BATTLE CHEMICAL SCOURGE

The provincial government has unveiled its latest tool in the fight
against crystal methamphetamine use: a $3-million school-based
program and public education campaign.

"We know crystal meth use is a problem," said Education Minister Shirley Bond.

"Research shows that about five per cent of students in grades 7 to
12 may have tried crystal meth. Our government believes that one
person using crystal meth is one person too many.

"And the best way to stop someone from using it is to keep them from
ever starting. That's why education is so important."

The school-based program and public education campaign, which are
aimed at students, parents and teachers, include:

- - Classroom lessons and resources that help youth make healthy and
informed decisions.

- - Teacher resources that support the classroom lessons.

- - A parents' guide to provide parents with the information they need
to talk to their kids about the drug.

- - A website at www.no2meth.ca that features interactive games and
activities, information on the effects and dangers of crystal meth,
and how to help a child or friend who uses it.

- - A public awareness campaign.

"These resources are just a few of the many ways government is
delivering on its commitment to fight crystal meth use and to invest
in B.C.'s children and future," said Bond.

"These tools will help students and all young British Columbians make
healthy choices that will allow them to reach their full potential."

In 2005-06, the Ministry of Education provided $500,000 to the B.C.
Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils to ensure that teachers are
fully trained in the effective use of the classroom resources.

At last year's Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention,
Premier Gordon Campbell committed $7 million for new initiatives to
fight crystal meth use.

Since then, five regional forums organized by the Ministry of Public
Safety and the Solicitor General have taken place in Kamloops,
Richmond, Courtenay, Vancouver, and Prince George.

The forums informed communities about the dangers of crystal meth
use, and through enhanced knowledge, help communities reduce use.

"B.C. is on the front lines in the fight against crystal meth as part
of our commitment to safer communities," said Solicitor General John Les.

"We're working with police to shut down meth labs and bring down
organized crime groups, but at the same time we also need to reach
out to students, parents and teachers, so this education campaign is
the natural next step."

In 2004, B.C. became the first jurisdiction in Canada to announce an
integrated crystal meth strategy.

In 2005, the province created the crystal meth secretariat within the
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General to implement the
strategy across government. Cassidy Olivier