GROUP MAKES HEADWAY FIGHTING SPREAD OF CRYSTAL METH ADDICTION

VANCOUVER ISLAND - A 90-day push by an army of volunteers has laid the
groundwork for an assault on the crystal meth problem that activists
say is spreading across Vancouver Island.

The Victoria Crystal Meth Society wants to tackle the problem on three
fronts: education, treatment and enforcement.

In three months, a task force has designed a multi-media show for
middle and secondary schools; prepared resource packages for students,
teachers and parents; and begun public awareness campaigns in
newspapers and on radio and television.

A speakers bureau of recovering addicts and experts has been set up to
make presentations to community groups.

Meanwhile, an agreement has been signed with the Vancouver Island
Health Authority to develop a treatment strategy and improve addiction
services.