Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, continues to take a head-in-the-sand approach to the unfolding social crisis caused by the use of crystal methamphetamine, or Ice, in our community, Tasmanian Greens’ Health spokesperson, Cassy O’Connor MP, said today.
“The latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey shows Tasmania has had the largest increase in illicit drug use of any state per population between 2010-13, from the lowest rate to now equal the national average and on a par with New South Wales and Victoria,” Ms O’Connor said.
“The survey also shows there was a statistically significant change in the form of methamphetamines used, with use of powder falling from 51% to 29% in that period, while use rates for crystal methamphetamine soared from 22% to over 50%.”
“Yet, much to the dismay of frontline stakeholders, this do-nothing Minister’s only response to repeated questions on the issue from the Greens is to throw his hands up in the air and say there simply aren’t the resources to invest in treatment services for users and early intervention to save a generation from Ice.”
“The Minister cannot continue to deny the extent and terrible effects of this drug on our communities. He needs to read the newspapers more often and the stories appearing on an almost daily basis detailing the connection between Ice and violent crime and, for example, the alleged sexual abuse of Tasmanian children.”
“It is hard to fathom how the Minister can continue to take no action as this crisis unfolds, claiming lives and devastating Tasmanian families. Surely he is abrogating his responsibility to protect the health of disadvantaged Tasmanians and particularly our young people?”
“The latest grim statistics tell a story of a drug getting a firm grip in Tasmania. Mr Ferguson needs to acknowledge Ice is a serious and growing problem in our community and, instead of throwing up his hands, commit to funding more treatment beds and investing in early intervention programs that will save lives,” Ms O’Connor said.
Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Health spokesperson
