EDUCATION GROUP TO HOLD WORKSHOP ON DRUG

Public demand for information about methamphetamine has prompted the
Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Education (Fade) to hold a workshop in
New Plymouth next month.

Crystal methamphetamine - known on the street as P, pure, burn,
crystal and ice - was having a devastating effect across the country
after exploding on to the drug scene over the past three years, Fade
executive director Colin Bramfitt said.

"Because pure methamphetamine is so addictive and expensive (about
$1000 a gram) those hooked can turn to crime to feed their habit. The
drug also causes severe depression, paranoia and aggression."

Police figures show that last year crimes linked to the drug increased
by 28% and 147 methamphetamine labs were uncovered, compared with just
nine two years earlier, Mr Bramfitt said.

But despite a police clampdown P was more available than ever, he
said.

"It's in some of our schools already . . . We are even getting calls
from companies who are seeing the problem in the workplace.
Methamphetamine use affects all socio-economic groups."

P has been implicated in several recent violent crimes in New Plymouth
and last month police and the Taranaki Health drug and alcohol unit
were involved in a public forum about the drug and its effects.

The Government recently reclassified methamphetamine as a class A drug
- - meaning those importing or manufacturing it could face life
imprisonment - as part an action plan aimed at curbing demand and
limiting harm.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bramfitt said the

two-hour workshop, to be held on August 15, was for teachers, health
professionals and community and youth workers.

"P is the drug we cannot ignore if we are serious about the health and
safety of New Zealanders. Information is our biggest asset."