Australia: Qld - Palm Island: Send In Sniffer Dogs

[CLICKHEREx]

16 Jul 2014
Source: Townsville Bulletin, The (Australia)

Website: http://townsvillebulletin.news.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3758
Author: Emma Channon

Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?237 (Drug Dogs)


Palm Island Residents Urge Action on Drugs Epidemic

SEND IN SNIFFER DOGS

DRUG problems have reached "epidemic" proportions on Palm Island say residents, who have called for permanent sniffer dogs.

The community's drug use has reportedly increased since the Alcohol Management Plan was introduced in 2006 because the illegal substances are easier to smuggle in.

Mayor Alf Lacey said he supported the call for drug dogs if that was what the community wanted.

Member for Townsville John Hathaway said he was also happy to work with the Palm Island community, but that it was an "operational" matter.

One former councillor said drugs were an epidemic on the island and had been "tearing families apart".

Cr Lacey admitted drugs were more accessible than grog.

"I think that's certainly one of the factors, but I wouldn't say the only one," he said.

"I would say it's partly to blame in terms of leading people to their substance abuse.

"We've got to understand that while taking the right away for people to consume certain types of alcohol, then ... individuals will choose other methods or another lifestyle choice to appease themselves."

Ecstasy and cannabis are said to be the two main drugs concerning residents.

"I won't shy away from saying it's a problem. It is a problem in this Lacey said.

"All we can do as a council is support the community-concerted effort around these issues."

He said the drugs were reportedly being brought into the island by "profiteers".

Drug squad officer-incharge Detective Senior Sergeant Mick Walker said he supported the idea of drug dogs for Palm Island, but that the decision was out of his hands.

Det. Sen- Sgt Walker said it was difficult for officers to target drug users and suppliers when Palm Island residents would not co- operate.

"We get stonewalled every time because residents won't engage with us," he said.

"If they perceive there's a problem, make a stand and do something about it."

Mr Hathaway said there was a dog squad operating in Townsville.

"When new police dogs graduate and if there is a demand, police will be able to deploy officers to Palm," he said.