Tas govt to look at drug problems
Following media reports of an ice scourge in northwest Tasmania the state government has launched a review into illegal drug use in the region.
Authorities including Tasmania Police admit there is a widespread problem with the abuse of methamphetamine, but the government has cited advice from health experts to claim there is no significant increase.
"What (the report) does show is drug use in general has increased in the northwest over the last decade - including alcohol, prescription drugs and cannabis," Health Minister Michael Ferguson said.
The review will consider the adequacy of treatment providers and the establishment of an inter-agency group bringing together police, health, education and community stakeholders.
An ABC TV report aired in mid-October reignited public debate about Tasmania's ice problem, and sparked allegations linking outlaw bikie gangs to the importation of ice to the island state.
Early results from the review are due to be handed to government in mid November.
