DRUG PROBLEM NEEDS NATIONAL, WORLD COLLABORATION

IT SEEMS ridiculous that the meagre $220 million drug package is to be
split among the states and territories.

The drug problem is a national (and international) one and needs to be
dealt with at the federal level.

There are three major areas competing for funds: The first deals with
supply, and involves law enforcement both at the point of entry to the
country, as well as on the streets (which involves inter-state
collaboration). The second area addresses the needs of those already
addicted; even now there are far too many for individual needs to be
catered for. The third area is that of demand, and this needs a
three-pronged attack.

I believe that the public has a right to know the dangers of drug
taking, a right we are already addressing through warnings on
cigarette packets.

The most efficient approach would be through a federally funded media
campaign.

Given that most first-time users encounter drugs whilst still at
school, this campaign needs to be supplemented by having specialist
teachers attached to every school with specific knowledge in the areas
of drugs, and mental and physical wellbeing.

The last two subjects address problem areas for young people which
appear to overlap the drug scene. This should be federally
co-ordinated and funded.

We should come to terms with the fact that neither licit nor illicit
drugs are necessarily a problem; the problem is that of addiction.

This includes recognised addictions such as gambling, and
non-recognised ones such as money (e.g. world monopolies) and power
addiction (e.g. Kosovo and domestic violence).

Given the extent to which all addictions put a strain on the economy
we should be pouring money into research in this field.

We should be pushing for world collaboration in all areas, not
divvying up our own inadequate allotment.

AUDREY GUY
Ngunnawal