Have your say on how we tackle alcohol and drugs in the community
MEDIA RELEASE - Have your say on how we tackle alcohol and drugs in the community
April 2016
The Shire of Manjimup has released the Southern Forests Alcohol and Other Drug Strategic Plan for public comment.The plan aims to reduce the incidence of harm in the community which results from the consumption of alcohol and other drugs.
Shire President Wade DeCampo said that the period of public comment gives the community a chance to provide input and feedback to ensure that is it relevant and meaningful to the region. "Drugs have been topical for several years now, which is why the strategy has evolved from targeting just alcohol harm, to also targeting the use of methamphetamine and cannabis," said Cr DeCampo.
In consultation with the local community and service providers, the target groups that have been identified in the plan are young people under 18 years of age, parents of children under 18 years of age and the adult community who drink alcohol and/or consume methamphetamines and/or cannabis.
"It isn't possible for the Shire to implement this strategy alone; roll-out of the initiatives within the strategy and the measure of their success requires a coordinated response across several sectors - local government, health and the police - and in partnership with the community," explained Cr DeCampo.
"Rather than being haphazard in our approach, we've identified three priority areas in order to set short term goals, have the resources available in order to implement the strategy and be ready to apply for funding opportunities as they arise."
Areas of priority identified in the strategy are:
- Underage drinking and secondary supply;
- Alcohol in sport and licenced settings; and
- Methamphetamines and Cannabis.
"The issue of alcohol and drug abuse in the community is incredibly complex - people are causing themselves and their loved ones harm every day and there is no easy or quick fix. The best solution we have before us is to work in partnership to try and educate and rehabilitate," said Cr DeCampo.
Click here to be redirected to the Public Comment page to view the strategy.
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.
Contact: 0427 094 081
