Pubdate: Mon, 03 Dec 2001 Source: Advertiser, The (Australia) Copyright: 2001 News Limited Contact: http://www.advertiser.com.au/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1 Author: Susie O'Brien, Political Reporter RANN SIGNALS DRUG SUMMIT Young drug takers and their parents will help officials tackle the growing use of amphetamines and designer drugs if Labor is elected in SA. Opposition Leader Mike Rann said yesterday he would convene a major drug summit within three months if he became premier early next year. "I do not want a talkfest but I want police, judges, health and welfare experts and young people themselves, to help us map out a strategy to deal with the threat of drugs that can endanger lives and even lead to death," he said. "We are hearing more and more stories of amphetamines being sold in our schools and nightclubs and other entertainment venues. What worries parents like myself is that kids might be sold drugs which cannot be identified." In recent weeks, seven people have been treated for overdoses of the drug fantasy. Mr Rann said the target of investigations would be outlaw motorcycle gangs that made and sold amphetamines, and nightclubs which "appear to be willing accomplices". "I want the summit also to examine issues such as early intervention for vulnerable children, the effectiveness and availability of counselling rehabilitation, detoxification services and the education of young people," he said. Labor justice spokesman Michael Atkinson will investigate if the law needs to be strengthened for those dealing in amphetamines. Police Minister Robert Brokenshire said:"We've been talking tough on drugs for some years now and have had to drag Labor kicking and screaming to the table," he said. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth