MLA PUSHING FOR STRICT CONTROL OF METH MIX

British Columbia is falling behind in controlling the sale of legal drugs
used to manufacture crystal meth, says Cowichan-Ladysmith MLA Doug Routley.

Routley, speaking in support of an NDP bill, is looking to push ephedrine
and pseudoephedrine products, used in decongestant medications, behind the
pharmacy counter.

"B.C. leads Canada in the manufacture of crystal meth but we have the least
amount of regulation," Routley said. "This bill will help eliminate smaller
meth labs in our communities. Small labs do damage to lives in small towns."

The Crystal Meth Prevention Act was introduced May 10 by Jagrup Brar, MLA
for Surrey Panorama Ridge. If passed, it would put decongestants behind the
counter, would require pharmacists to discuss the medication with the buyer
and would restrict the amount sold at any one time.

Six provinces and 40 American states restrict the sale of ephedrine-linked
products. At least four American states require pharmacies collect personal
information on purchasers.

Routley admits the bill is unlikely to halt the wholesale manufacture of
crystal meth. Recent media reports have indicated large meth labs stay
under the radar by smuggling ephedrine and other crystal meth precursors
into Canada in bulk volumes.

"It won't make a dent in the bigger market of drugs, but it is a small and
important step to deal with the drug," he said. "It is symbolic and will
put us in line with other jurisdictions."

Susan Ogilvie, the spokesperson for the B.C. Pharmacy Association,
questioned need for such legislation, saying most pharmacists are part of
the Meth Watch program, and are already vigilant about controlling the sale
of products linked with crystal meth.

She also pointed out that the RCMP has never found a link between the
purchase of ephedrine products from B.C. pharmacies and the manufacture of
crystal meth.

"We doubt it will effect the distribution and manufacture of crystal meth,
most of which is run by organized crime," Ogilvie said. "There is no doubt
it is a vile drug, but restricting the sale of a legal product will not
solve the problem."