METH USE ON THE RISE

Education Minister Shirley Bond says more young people than ever are
experimenting with crystal meth.

"We know crystal meth use is a problem," Bond said. "Research shows
that about five per cent of students in Grade 7-12 may have tried crystal meth.

"Our government believes that one person using crystal meth is one
person too many."

She added that the province is working to give parents the
information they need to talk to their kids about the drug.

That's the reason the B.C. government has initiated a $3-million
school-based program and public education campaign.

A website at www.no2meth.ca 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.

"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.

In 2004, B.C. became the first jurisdiction in Canada to announce an
integrated crystal meth strategy. In 2005, the Province of B.C.
created a Crystal Meth Secretariat to implement the strategy across government.