Drug abuse rising

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HEARST-Constance Lake has identified a problem with prescription drug abuse on its reserve. They are seeking the assistance of other communities and organizations that are dealing with the same situation.

Band authorities say as many as 900 tablets of prescription drugs such as Oxycodone, Oxycontin and Percocet are coming into the community at one time and being sold for $9 a tablet. Chief Arthur Moore said "The major challenges of this drug problem are accessibility and tolerance."

The First Nation has adopted a 'no tolerance' policy that it is enforcing against anyone selling or abusing drugs, and it is asking others to practise the same policy and to contact authorities if they have evidence of abuse or illegal drug activities. The chief is also calling on pharmacies to exercise diligence.

"We want to see more stringent policies being implemented by local pharmaceutical outlets when it comes to the sale and filling of their prescriptions. The abuse of these drugs can be linked to various health and social problems in the area such as break-ins, and not just on our reserve."

Matawa First Nations Management Services, Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service, the Notre Dame Hospital in Hearst, Ontario Provincial Police and Crime Stoppers support Constance Lake on this issue.