DRUG PROFITS

Sir - The profits from a cannabis-growing operation are going to end up in
the hands of the Crown. Why is it that these profits are not being put back
into the system to help those that have become addicted through these
people's profit-making actions?

There is a need for more rehab centres to cope with New Zealand's growing
drug population. The queue for the methadone programme in Christchurch is
six months, but in reality is longer. For any parent with a child waiting
for treatment it is like a death sentence on them and everyone else that
surrounds the child with the addiction.

With the debate for legalising cannabis, plus the lower drinking age, rehab
centres are a must. Yes, some can control their alcohol and drug intake
socially, it's the 10 per cent who cannot, with figures growing every day,
who already fill our overflowing centres and who need urgent treatment.

PAMELA MANNING