RISE IN DRUG MISUSE CAUSE FOR CONCERN- FINNIE

Written by Ross Finnie on Wed 17th Dec 2008

RISE IN DRUG MISUSE CAUSE FOR CONCERN- FINNIE

West of Scotland Liberal Democrat MSP Ross Finnie has warned that drug misuse in the West of Scotland is on the rise and will continue to do so unless a National Drugs Strategy is implemented as a matter of urgency.

Drug misuse statistics published have shown that the number of people taking drugs in Scotland is rising. Figures show that in 2007/08 5363 people were discharged from hospital having been diagnosed of drug misuse. This represents 108 per 100,000 of the Scottish population; this figure has surged after falling under the previous administration.

Commenting Mr Finnie said:

"The rise in drug misuse in the West of Scotland is a cause for great concern.

"The national drugs strategy, currently under discussion must be fast tracked so that this surge in drug abuse can be reversed.

"Only a dual approach to drug misuse will achieve this, those who use drugs require early intervention and more programmes to help them kick the habit. But there also needs to be a renewed attack on drug dealers, large and small. To get them off our streets."

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