POLICE WANT HEALTH CASH

Wellington: Money from the Government's health coffers is needed to help
police fight the battle against methamphetamine and other drugs, the Police
Association says.

"Ultimately, the failures are going to be health problems," president Greg
O'Connor said.

The use of methamphetamine, or speed, has soared in recent years because of
the involvement of organised crime gangs and local manufacturing.

Its price has also halved in Wellington over the past year.

Detective Sergeant Simon Perry, of Wellington's organised crime squad, said
methamphetamine was the biggest concern for drug police today.

The district's latest crime statistics show offences involving drugs, other
than cannabis, doubled between 1998-99 and 1999-2000.

Last month, it was reported speed cases were already putting pressure on
alcohol and drug clinics.

Mr O'Connor drew a comparison between traffic and drug enforcement. Police
got funding from the national road fund, tagged for traffic enforcement. A
similar system was needed for drug enforcement.

The health system had to cope with drug users and the victims of
drug-fuelled violence. It would end up having to cope with people who
became psychotic from speed.

"The Ministry of Health should be investing in police . . . because if they
don't, they're going to pay the price."

The only joint funding project is the National Drug Intelligence Bureau, at
the Office of the Police Commissioner. Police, the Health Ministry and
Customs pay for it.

Mr O'Connor also wants an overall crime strategy from police, including a
clear direction on drug enforcement.