DELTASSIST GETS SUPPORT FOR DRUG USE STUDY IN SCHOOLS

Delta council and the Delta police board have endorsed a plan by
Deltassist to conduct a review of drug use, in particular crystal
methamphetamine, in Delta schools.

Julie Chadwick of Deltassist's youth substance use committee said
crystal meth is not a major problem in Delta yet.

"We'd like it to remain that way," Chadwick told councillors during a
presentation last week.

Of the 200 youths who have used Deltassist services, only four have
been addicted to crystal meth.

Chadwick, however, said there is no baseline data available to
develop a clear understanding of the scope and type of substance
abuse in Delta, including that of crystal meth. Such information
would help Deltassist to develop an efficient and effective
community-wide response to meth and other substance use in
co-ordination with the Fraser Health Authority, she said.Chadwick
said the drug is highly addictive and can be attractive to youths as
an appetite suppressant. The drug is also cheap.

"We wouldn't want it to become a problem. We want to be as proactive
as we can be," Chadwick said.

To undertake the study, Deltassist needs to apply for a grant from
the Union of B.C. Municipalities Community Methamphetamine Response
Funds program.

While the program specifies methamphetamine use, the Delta study will
cover all substances.

Chadwick said Deltassist is getting help developing the study from
Kwantlen University College. Research will likely involve about 500
students and include a survey of Delta secondary schools co-ordinated
by Kwantlen's Franco Marino.

The next portion will include anecdotal information conducted through
focus groups with youths already in treatment, youths in alternate
schools and on probation, and youths in the general school population.

"I'll be very interested to see how these numbers roll out," said
Coun. Scott Hamilton, the parent of a teenaged daughter in North Delta.

Coun. Jeannie Kanakos said she supports the survey.

"It looks like a great project and a logical next step," she said,
referring to the well-attended Delta police-hosted meth forums a few
months ago.

Deltassist also has the support of the Delta school board.