FUNDING FOR DETOX CENTRE

FUNDING FOR DETOX CENTRE

11 May 1999

Thomas George is extremely pleased with the recent announcement of the $2.8 m detoxification centre and the identification of a proposed site.

This is indeed worthy recognition, by the Health Minister, Mr Craig Knowles and the Northern Rivers Area Health Service, of the hard work and lobbying by the community, organisations and elected representatives to have such a facility provided in this area.

The centre is welcomed especially following recent concern being focused on the "shooting galleries", which do not assist addicts in abandoning their drug addiction.

The facility will allow people who are physically dependent to withdraw safely over five to seven days. With qualified staff and detoxification workers on hand as well as being closely linked to the Richmond Clinic and the Emergency Department at the Lismore Base Hospital.

The flow on cost of drug abuse, to families, friends and communities, is incomprehensible and more than we would like to consider.

"Recent discussions with Dr Tony Sherbon disclosed the announcement was close and I believe this is the last link in the network of existing services which will succeed in overcoming the drug abuse problems of the area" Thomas George concluded.