Tuesday, 18th August 2020
A Deb Frecklington LNP Government will implement a comprehensive strategy to combat the growing ice epidemic in regional Queensland.
LNP Shadow Minister for Health Ros Bates said the LNP will deliver more local treatment services, with four rehabilitation and detox centres in Townsville, Wide Bay, Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast.
“The LNP is determined to reverse the trend of ice addition and we will tackle this issue head-on,” Ms Bates said in Townsville today.
“The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission report* found ice addition is rising across regional Queensland and has infiltrated throughout small towns.
“This dangerous drug is ripping Queensland families apart.
“Only an LNP Government has a plan that provides more treatment, more education and more awareness.
“These additional detox centres will help protect regional communities by offering the support and services needed to break the cycle of addiction.
“As a nurse, I’ve seen first-hand how this drug destroys lives and ruins communities.
“Only the LNP has a comprehensive plan to keep the Townsville community safe.”
LNP Candidate for Mundingburra Glenn Doyle said ice use is a shocking cycle
that needs breaking.
“Cars get stolen, houses robbed and businesses broken into just so people can
feed their habit,” Mr Doyle said.
“The LNP’s plan to for more rehab and detox treatment services centre in
Townsville is a major step forward for this city.
“As a police officer, I’ve been on the frontline and witnessed how ice ruins
lives.
“I’m proud that the LNP has a plan in place to help regional Queensland
communities deal with this awful problem that sees innocent people get caught
in the crossfire.
“The LNP has committed to tougher crime laws, 60 extra police officers in
Townsville and a dedicated police helicopter to help keep us safe.”
LNP’s comprehensive plan to tackle the ICE epidemic:
- Increased local treatment services with four new regional drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres, with additional detox facilities
- More education and awareness with a state-wide campaign targeting high-risk demographics
- Targeted prevention, with more mental health support and drug addiction services
- Focused law enforcement with additional drug detective squads restricting supply and partnering with federal law enforcement agencies to crackdown on organised crime gangs
- Better research and data to ensure policy is keeping pace with emerging trends