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Efforts to tackle drugs misuse
18/12/2007
Minister for Community Safety Fergus Ewing today commented on the publication of the "Drug Misuse Statistics Scotland, 2007".
Mr Ewing said:
"These statistics present a stark snapshot of the challenges Scotland faces in endeavouring to tackle the scourge of drugs. Above all they highlight the complexity of the problem and the devastating impact drugs have on our society as a whole.
"That is why this government is taking a fresh look at how we tackle drug misuse . We want to build on what has worked in the past, and build a new consensus on what could work in the future. We have already demonstrated our willingness to work with other parties in this crucial area and will continue to do so.
"This is one of the greatest problems facing us as a nation - it's a long term problem, we need long term solutions - not to look for quick fixes. We will launch a new drugs strategy next year that will be focussed on using resources more effectively to get addicts drug-free.
"Connecting people to the right services and integrated care to help them lead drug free lives should be the norm across Scotland rather than the exception. Promoting recovery will be at the forefront of our strategy.
"It will also have a greater emphasis on prevention - from better drugs education, to more choices and chances for young people, to better outcomes for children and young people in substance misusing households.
"It is essential that we support children affected by their parents' misuse of drugs and alcohol. In seeking to bring about the improvements to children's lives we must be mindful of the complexity of this terrain, balancing the management of risk and intervention with support for families and protection of children.
"Over 50,000 people in Scotland are fighting a personal battle with drugs. A battle fought every minute of every day. Between hope and despair. It is government's job to bring people together to make sure the right support is there when it's needed - to tip the balance in favour of hope.
"Of course, enforcement will continue to play a vital role too. As a clear sign of our commitment to tackle this menace, the Justice Secretary has established the first ever Serious Organised Crime Taskforce for Scotland.
"By bringing together specialist crime fighting expertise, skills and knowledge in one forum, we will provide the strategic direction, legislation, regulation and co-ordination that is needed to ensure there is no hiding place for drug dealers in Scotland.
"There are inherent difficulties gathering accurate data in the area of drug misuse. I want to encourage a culture of innovation in drugs policy based on evidence, evaluation and review. I want to see it flourishing at national and local levels so that treatment, education and other interventions are constantly evolving and improving in light of best practice."
"Drug Misuse Statistics Scotland, 2007" is an annual compendium publication by ISD of the latest available information on drug misuse, and comes from a range of national data sources.