CHIKAROVSKI FEARS RISE IN DRUG USE

Opposition Leader Kerry Chikarovski fears last week's drug summit could lead
to increased use of illegal drugs.

And a prominent front-line drug worker believes the establishment of "safe"
heroin injecting rooms will signal that authorities are "going soft" on drugs.

Ms Chikarovski says the summit sent a message to young people that society
will tolerate drug use.

"My very real worry is that we've said to young people that it's acceptable
to use drugs, and we won't take the strongest possible stance against drug use."

The summit backed community-based trials of heroin injection rooms and the
relaxation of cannabis laws.

Salvation Army drug counsellor Paul Moulds says any move towards injecting
rooms must be accompanied by increased services to help addicts kick the habit.

Lieutenant Moulds, director of the Oasis Youth Support Network, says
rehabilitation services should be set up beside injecting rooms.

"If such rooms become a reality, you must make a commitment to ensure every
addict using such a room also hears the message that rehabilitation is possible.

"If we make the act of using easier for addicts, we must redouble our
efforts to provide them with information about programs that can help them
eliminate or reduce their drug use."