SNP MUST ACT TO CUT DRUG DEATHS - FINNIE

Written by Ross Finnie on Wed 12th Aug 2009

SNP MUST ACT TO CUT DRUG DEATHS - FINNIE

Commenting on official figures showing drug related deaths in Scotland have rocketed by over 131 per cent over the last ten years, Liberal Democrat Health spokesperson Ross Finnie MSP said:

"These figures reveal the extent of Scotland's drug shame.

"The Scottish Government needs to take action to cut the rocketing number of drug deaths.

"Ministers need to act particularly on two key areas highlighted by the figures. First, men are more likely to die from drug abuse and, second, alcohol was involved in almost half of last year's drug deaths.

"The SNP also needs to ensure that all those who seek treatment can access it immediately. Official figures published earlier this year showed that drug abusers who missed the fourteen day target for referral face a one in four chance of waiting more than a year for treatment.

"Leaving some addicts hanging on waiting lists for a year won't cut the rocketing number of drug deaths."

Ends.

Notes to Editors:

Figures released in March this year showed that between October and December 2008,

In Oct-Dec 2008, approximately 70% of those offered an appointment for assessment were offered a date within 14 days of referral.

But of those who were still waiting for an appointment for assessment, approximately 25% had waited more than 52 weeks by the end of October 2008.