TASK FORCE ON CRYSTAL METH IS BADLY NEEDED

Providing the next generation with a safe environment to grow up in
as well as the support they need to succeed must be a priority for
the community and government.

On Sept. 19, the Premier's Task Force on Crystal Meth put forward 83
recommendations to fight the growing problem of crystal
methamphetamine use in Alberta communities. It is a positive step
forward against a plague that affects far too many Albertans. One
experience with Crystal Meth is enough to result in addiction and the
contents of the drug are nothing less than toxic.

For those on the outside it is hard to understand the attraction some
people have to drugs, whether it is an escape mechanism, rebellion,
or 'just for the experience.' Consuming illegal drugs is like
flirting with disaster.

Obviously the major focus of the report is finding a way to keep
people from starting to use the toxic substance in the first place as
well as getting the appropriate long-term treatment and support they
need. Finally, the drug dealers and producers - those who profit the
most from the destruction of others - are the target of attempts to
get crystal meth off the streets and therefore out of the hands of users.

No matter what the addictive substance, whether it is
non-prescription drugs or alcohol, it can have a devastating and
far-reaching impact on society as a whole. Therefore, the greater
community must do its part to help fight the battle.