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By Joe Fries
Efforts to implement a regional drug strategy drafted in 2005 have received a B grade from the person co-ordinating the plan.
Some 28 recommendations were contained in an action plan for dealing with problematic drug use and related issues within the region. Issues identified in the report ranged from highly-visible drug dealing to a need for better public health outreach.
Christene Welsh, the drug policy co-ordinator for the Central Okanagan Regional District, praised the overall efforts but also identified the need for more work in assigning the B grade.
“There’s been greater co-operation and co-ordination between the public, enforcement and non-profit agencies that deal with people impacted by addictions,” Welsh said in a press release.
One of the four identified actions to receive an A+ was the desire for a youth shelter and drop-in facility, which was realized by the establishment of the Richter Street Shelter and Club 180, operated by the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club.
Meanwhile, five actions received a C-. One of them is the need for more youth addiction service capacity, which still doesn’t exist locally.
Four main goals were identified in the 2005 framework: greater co-ordination and co-operation; improved public health; enhanced quality of life; and restored public order.
More to follow.
joe@kelowna.com/ (250) 575-4303
