The use of "Ice", is growing alarmingly according to Andrew Macintosh, Deputy Director of The Australia Institute

The use of methamphetamine, also known as "Ice", is growing alarmingly according to Andrew Macintosh, Deputy Director of The Australia Institute.

Andrew spoke recently at a forum sponsored by Mary Porter in her capacity as a member of both the ‘Parliamentary Group for Drug Law Reform’ and ‘Family and Friends for Drug Law Reform’.

In the last twenty-five years there has been a five fold increase in the number of methamphetamine arrests in the ACT.

Furthermore, the drug’s increasing popularity appears to be leading so called ’recreational drug users’ towards a hardened drug scene. In 2003 56% of party drug users in the ACT reported recent use of "Ice".

"There are many who suffer from substance abuse disorders also have associated mental illnesses" Mr Macintosh said. "There is no magic bullet to solve these problems but the evidence clearly shows that the best outcomes are achieved through treatment and prevention programs; not more law enforcement. Drug law enforcement will always have an important role to play however people suffering from substance abuse disorders, particularly those who also have a mental illness, need treatment in a medical setting not punishment through the criminal justice system."

Opening the forum Mary Porter said it was important that as a community we have the debate about drug law reform.