Ice manufacturers and dealers will now face the increased prospect of life behind bars and as far as Holsworthy MP Melanie Gibbons is concerned such a tough stance is a good move.
Starting from September 1, the threshold required to charge people with manufacturing or dealing large commercial quantities of methylamphetamine or ice, halved in NSW from one kilo to 500 grams.
“The NSW Government has delivered an election commitment to take decisive action, meet community expectations and ensure the most serious ice manufacturers and dealers are brought to justice,” Ms Gibbons said.
“The most recent NSW quarterly crime statistics released on Thursday have reinforced the need for strong, decisive action on drug crime.
“In the 24 months to June 2015 more than 381 drug-related incidents involving amphetamines were reported in the Liverpool region – an increase of 73.2 percent.
“We need to act now to turn this around,” Ms Gibbons said.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”] “Ice is a scourge in our community and drug manufacturers and dealers, particularly those involved in ice, profit from the misery and misfortune of others.[/social_quote]
“The NSW Government believes serious drug manufacturers and dealers spreading this poison throughout the community must be held to higher account.”
Under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 all amphetamines, including ice, are prohibited.
Charges of manufacture and dealing of these drugs carry terms of up to life imprisonment.
The NSW Government will also focus on earlier detection and expanding treatment services for people trying to get clean from this life destroying drug.
“Our $11 million investment will deliver more targeted services that keep people off ice and out of emergency rooms,” Ms Gibbons said.
