Pubdate: Tue, 27 Dec 2005 Source: Lacombe Globe, The (CN AB) Copyright: 2005 Lacombe Globe Contact: http://www.lacombeglobe.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3296 Author: James Neeley, Globe Staff Writer Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine) CRYSTAL METH BATTLE GEARS UP The war against crystal meth is solidifying locally thanks to expanded training for police and new rules from the province. The 2006 Lacombe Police Services plan identifies the growing problem of methamphetamine labs in Canada. "All of us need to be vigilant," said Chief David Lock of the Lacombe Police Service. "It is here, we cannot be permissive." The strategy outlined the training of one police officer in meth lab response who will be capable of ensuring the safety of all persons when investigating a crime scene where the drug is manufactured. "If we understand the methods of production, effects and symptoms of meth, our officers and associated front line workers will be able to identify lab locations, manage crystal meth users and most importantly safeguard potential hazards," added Lock. The Alberta government took measures to limit the availability of a main ingredient by moving single-entity pseudo ephedrine, found in non-prescription cold medicines behind the counter where pharmacists can regulate its distribution. "With all of the western provinces now on board, we are now able to make a unified push to control the production of crystal meth," said Iris Evans, Alberta's Health and Wellness minister. "By restricting the sale of the main precursors of the drug, we hope to reduce the production and sale of this dangerous drug." Many local pharmacies followed previous provincial suggestions and practiced the behind counter distribution of related products for some time. Rexall Drugs pharmacist Walter Hackett began controlling the sale of pseudo ephedrine medication about a year ago. "If somebody wanted it for the manufacturing of crystal meth, they would have to go elsewhere," he added. Regulating the distribution is easy considering the extremely high amounts of these medications needed to produce the drug would never make it over the counter. It is not a problem Hackett has dealt with, "But out front there is the chance it could be abused." Alberta is leading the way in the battle against crystal meth by opening 24 residential beds for the treatment of youth, launching a new task force and increasing funding to battle the drug by 12 per cent including $4.2 million to establish the detoxification services. "I think we've made the right move to continue our fight against crystal meth without necessarily limiting access to medications that Albertans may legitimately need," said Evans. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D