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Political Barbs Flying Over Libs' Handling of Crystal Meth Epidemic

By 250 News

As B.C. Solicitor-General John Les gets set to host the first of four public forums on crystal methamphetamines in Prince George on Thursday, the Opposition New Democrats are accusing Les of being all talk and no action.

Two NDP M.L.A.s, who were just in Prince George as part of the party's caucus meeting, chided the Solicitor-General for calling on the new Conservative Government in Ottawa to step up and address B.C.'s problem.

NDP Solicitor-General Critic, Jagrup Brar, says, "Working with the federal government is very important in addressing this crisis."  But Brar says, "'Working with' implies that the province had done its fair share and that's simply not the case."

While the provincial government recently handed out $2-million dollars for crystal meth education, the New Democrat's Mental Health Critic, Charlie Wyse, says much more must be done.

"This province lacks the treatment beds for those kicking the habit, and there is a clear and present need for more funding for detox programs."  

Wyse says, "While other provinces lead Canada in prevention and treatment, B.C. continues to lag behind, despite the fact that the crystal meth epidemic is largest here."

Thursday's forum, hosted by the B.C. Solicitor-General goes at 6pm in UNBC's Canfor Theatre.
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