I’m disappointed that the NSW Government won’t consider the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Drug ‘Ice’ recommendations to provide more medically supervised injecting centres, pill testing, prison needle and syringe programs and an overhaul of sniffer dog operations. The report showed changing drug markets have seen trends towards amphetamine stimulants, incredibly strong fentanyl and a wide range of synthetic drugs. Like others before it, the inquiry found strong evidence that these measures will reduce drug-related harm. Details: HERE

It is a shame and irresponsible to ignore the expertise and effort of everyone who contributed to the inquiry. As part of the NSW Cross-Party Harm Minimisation Roundtable, I welcomed the health minister’s commitment to consider the other 104 recommendations of the inquiry. I will continue to push for a comprehensive evidence-based response that provides health treatment to users and focusses criminal justice response on drug trafficking and manufacture.

Drug treatment services are overloaded and have long delays for access to help. My most recent questions in Parliament about inner city drug services: HERE.

Expanded alcohol and drug services are even more vital during a time of increased anxiety and stress.