CRYSTAL METH FORUM WILL ADDRESS 'GROWING CONCERN'

The Society for Community Development, the Port Coquitlam Community
Police Station and the Tri-Cities Meth Task Force will co-host a
crystal meth awareness forum on Wednesday, May 10.

"Crystal meth production and addiction in the Tri-Cities is a growing
concern," said Jodie McNeice, manager of the Port Coquitlam Community
Police Station and task force member. "By taking an active approach
through holding this forum, we hope to inform the public of this
problem and work together for solutions."

Robb McGirr, a retired Port Moody police officer and associate member
of the British Columbia Association of Social Workers, will be the
keynote speaker.

McGirr works as a school-based drug and alcohol prevention counsellor for
teens and offers a frank presentation to increase awareness and
understanding of the devastating effects of crystal meth. Copies of
McGirr's publication "Teen Drug Trends: A Parents' Guide in Understanding
and Responding to Teen Drug Use" will be available at the forum.

The panel will also include Port Coquitlam assistant fire Chief John
Kenyon, who will discuss the community impact of crystal meth, and
Mike Miller from the InnerVisions Recovery Society, who will share his
personal struggle with addiction and his subsequent recovery.

The presenters will provide information on the subject from their own
perspective, and there will be an opportunity for the public to ask
questions and offer comments.

The forum is geared toward all ages, so families are encouraged to
attend together.

"We are sending invitations to as many community groups and schools in
the Tri-Cities [as possible] to promote this forum," McNeice said.

"The more information we can get into the community, the better our
chances are of combatting this serious problem."

The forum will take place at 7 p.m. at Riverside Secondary, located at
2215 Reeve St. in Port Coquitlam.