KIDS' FORCED DETOX PLAN WELL USED

CALGARY -- Hundreds of Alberta families have benefited from
legislation introduced by the province last summer that enables
parents to force their children into mandatory detox, government stats show.

Under the Protection of Children Abusing Drugs Act, a parent or
guardian can apply to have their drug or alcohol-addicted child
placed in a protective safe house for up to five days.

In its first year, 395 families have used the act to access treatment.

Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC) chair and Calgary
MLA Harvey Cenaiko called the legislation an important part of
addiction services.

"We have connected with youth and families we may otherwise not have
been able to help," Cenaiko said. "In fact, of the youth who were
confined in the past year, 229 chose to continue with voluntary services."

Last July, AADAC opened five safe houses across the province where
parents can send their addicted children for round-the-clock
supervision - whether the children want to go or not.

The act applies to kids aged 12 to 17. In the past, a youngster had
to voluntarily seek help at the urging of parents.

During the court-ordered confinement, AADAC provides detox services,
assessment and works with the child and parents to develop a
voluntary treatment plan.