FORUM LOOKS AT CRYSTAL METH

It is the drug of choice. The cheap high. The party drug.

It is methamphetamine or crystal meth.

And it is a problem in Nanaimo.

"Users and addicts have said crystal meth will change your life forever, it
will take you on a path and make you do things you would not normally do,'
said Const. Beth Blackburn of the RCMP Drug Awareness Service.

"It's cheaper than cocaine, the high last longer and it has infested our
homes and our community."

Nanaimo Alcohol and Drug Action Committee is hosting a free public forum on
crystal meth 7 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 17) at Beban Park Social Centre.

The forum will include guest speakers from health care, law enforcement,
addictions and outreach programs and will provide information on the lethal
drug.

"Two years ago we hardly saw crystal meth in Nanaimo," said Blackburn.

"Now it's an extensive problem."

Not only is the use of the drug dangerous, but the manufacturing and
trafficking in crystal meth leads to exposure to dangerous chemicals and
violence.

The forum is focussed at youth, parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches,
mentors - anyone who has a voice when it comes to youth and the choices
they can make when it comes to drugs.

"I really hope the public takes the time to come out to the forum," said
Blackburn.

"It's an increasing problem in the community and we need to join together
to prevent this drug from taking over the youth of Nanaimo."

For more information, please telephone 755-3226.