PROVINCE LAUNCHES $3M CRYSTAL METH EDUCATION PROGRAM

VICTORIA – The Province today unveiled its latest tool in the fight against crystal methamphetamine use: a $3-million school-based program and public education campaign.

“We know crystal meth use is a problem,” said Education Minister Shirley Bond. “Research shows that about five per cent of students in grades 7-12 may have tried crystal meth. Our government believes that one person using crystal meth is one person too many. And the best way to stop someone from using it is to keep them from ever starting. That’s why education is so important.”

The school-based program and public education campaign, which are aimed at students, parents and teachers, include:

· Classroom lessons and resources that help youth make healthy and informed decisions;

· Teacher resources that support the classroom lessons;

· A parents’ guide to provide parents with the information they need to talk to their kids about the drug;

· A website at www.no2meth.ca that features interactive games and activities, information on the effects and dangers of crystal meth, and how to help a child or friend who uses it; and

· A public awareness campaign.

“These resources are just a few of the many ways government is delivering on its commitment to fight crystal meth use and to invest in B.C.’s children and future,” said Bond. “These tools will help students and all young British Columbians make healthy choices that will allow them to reach their full potential.”

In 2005-06, the Ministry of Education provided $500,000 to the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils to ensure that teachers are fully trained in the effective use of the classroom resources.

At last year’s Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention, Premier Gordon Campbell committed $7 million for new initiatives to fight crystal meth use. Since then, five regional forums organized by the Ministry of Public Safety and the Solicitor General have taken place in Richmond, Courtenay, Vancouver, Kamloops and Prince George. The forums informed communities about the dangers of crystal meth use, and through enhanced knowledge, help communities reduce use.

“B.C. is on the front lines in the fight against crystal meth as part of our commitment to safer communities,” said Solicitor General John Les. “We’re working with police to shut down meth labs and bring down organized crime groups, but at the same time we also need to reach out to students, parents and teachers, so this education campaign is the natural next step.”

In 2004, B.C. became the first jurisdiction in Canada to announce an integrated crystal meth strategy. In 2005, the Province created the Crystal Meth Secretariat within the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General to implement the strategy across government.

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Media contact:	Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Education 250 356-5963

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