LIBERALS RELEASE CRYSTAL METH STRATEGY

The provincial government has a strategy to prevent the use and harmful
effects of crystal meth and other amphetamines.

Susan Brice, minister of state for mental health and addiction services,
released the strategy Monday, saying in a news release, "It will focus the
full range of available resources to discourage use and to treat those who
are already addicted to this profoundly damaging drug."

Five priorities for action were identified in the provincial strategy:

- - Identifying high-risk populations.

- - Reducing individual harm.

- - Building safer communities.

- - Increasing the skills of service providers.

- - Informing the public.

Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant more commonly known
as crystal meth. It is often used with other substances such as cocaine,
crack, heroin or alcohol. It can be swallowed, smoked, injected or snorted.

Long-term amphetamine use may cause changes to the brain, memory loss,
difficulty completing complex tasks and permanent psychotic symptoms.

The province did not release a budget.