Drugs Deaths in Scotland

[Pat 0]

No doubt you have seen the many reports about the high incidence of drug deaths in Scotland. 

The Scottish Government has identified various ways of addressing this issue including setting up safe consumption rooms where the risk of overdose will be reduced, no sharing of dirty needles so less chance of contracting HIV and also and importantly there will be opportunities for drug users to access help and addiction problems.  (https://news.gov.scot/news/working-to-cut-drug-deaths)

There are many examples throughout the world of how other countries have tackled major drugs issue – Portugal is a prime example of how government policy has brought about dramatic change. (https://www.theguardian.com/news/2017/dec/05/portugals-radical-drugs-policy-is-working-why-hasnt-the-world-copied-it)

However, drugs is a reserved rather than devolved issue and the UK Government consistently objects to the setting up of Drugs Consumption Rooms in Scotland.  https://thirdforcenews.org.uk/tfn-news/drugs-forum-would-back-illegal-consumption-facility

Plans are now in place to set up a free drugs consumption van despite Malthouse advising the illegality.

Despite facing arrest: 

'Peter Krykant is fundraising to kit out a van and offer a safe and clean space for drug users to inject to take them out of of dangerous conditions that have been shown to increase the risk of HIV and to reduce overdose.

Mr Krykant, who is in long term recovery from addiction and works with homeless people in Glasgow, had raised more than £2000 before his JustGiving crowdfunding page was taken down but he is determined to continue with the project.'

 https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/18276527.glasgow-mobile-safe-drug-consumption-unit-arrive-without-government-backing/

 

[samscafeamericain 0]

Meanwhile the tory minister who refused the set up of mock drug consumption rooms at the Glasgow conference will set one up down south.

seems its just a bad idea when its proposed by Scottish Government