JABLONSKI PUSHES TOUGH LOVE LEGISLATION FOR YOUNG DRUG ADDICTS

Desperate parents of drug-addicted children should have the power to force
them into treatment centres, says Red Deer North MLA Mary Anne Jablonski.

Jablonski plans to introduce a private member's bill in March that would
give parents and provincial authorities the right to place children in
treatment centres - even if it's against their will.

"The bill would recognize that children who abuse drugs are victims and
need help and protection," said Jablonski.

"It recognizes that families should be actively involved in ensuring the
safety of their children, especially when they're involved in drug abuse."
Jablonski said Bill 202 - the Protection of Children Involved with Drugs
Act - would be the first of its kind in the world.

Under the bill, a parent who has proof that their child is using drugs
could apply to a provincial authority such as the Alberta Alcohol and Drug
Abuse Commission (AADAC).

The parent would request the right to place their child in an accredited
drug treatment program for a year or longer, said Jablonski. If needed, the
police could bring the child to the treatment centre.

Jablonski doesn't believe the bill would violate human rights. A similar
law allowing the apprehension of young prostitutes has stood up against
court challenges, she said.

Under the Protection of Children Involved in Prostitution Act, police or
social workers can apprehend alleged prostitutes under age 18 and lock them
in protective safe houses for up to 72 hours.

Jablonski said she has spoken to frustrated parents who didn't know how to
help their addicted children. A 15-year-old youth had been beaten up twice
because of drug debts.

"Not only did parents feel hopeless and helpless, so did I," said Jablonski.

"We need to protect children - it's a health and safety issue."

Jablonski said she will also continue to press for more rehabilitation
facilities, including a youth rehabilitation centre in Red Deer.

"It's a definite that we don't have enough treatment centres for our youth
and I think that we have an epidemic of drug use."

Red Deer youth sometimes face long waits to enter facilities in Edmonton or
Calgary, which may reduce their chances of success, she said. Bill 202 will
be effective only if there are treatment centres for the youth, she added.

Funding is not available at this time to open a youth rehabilitation centre
in Red Deer, but Jablonski said she will keep looking for dollars.