EYE ON PUPILS FOR DRUGS

Teachers will be taught to recognise signs of drug taking, as part of
the federal Government's $275 million campaign to combat illicit
substances in schools.

Health Department research, released by parliamentary Secretary for
Education Trish Worth yesterday, shows 84 per cent of parents turn to
teachers when they perceive a child has a drug problem.

Up to 75 per cent also consult their general practitioner.

But the research also reveals concerns among teachers and general
practitioners of a "knowledge gap" particularly about newer party drugs.

The teacher's education will start with leading drug experts and
doctors broadcast by satellite from Sydney to school principals and
teachers around the country.

National Expert Advisory Cornmittee on Drugs chairman Robert Ali said
last night teachers and doctors played a vital role in promoting a
healthy lifestyle.

"The main message I want to get over about teachers and doctors
working together is early recognition."

"The earlier people intervene in the course of drug use the more
likely it is they don't need to take illicit drugs and those who do
take illicit drugs can be helped to reconsider the consequences of
their actions," he said.

Cigarettes, alcohol and cannabis are the most common drugs used by
school-age children from as early as senior primary school.