Health system under pressure as meth impact grows
BY NED GAGAHE
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) says the growing impact of methamphetamine is placing serious financial and social pressure on the country’s health system.
Speaking before the parliamentary Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) on Friday, February 20, MHMS Permanent Secretary, Pauline McNeil said the proposed increase in penalties under the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2025 is justified due to the heavy burden meth is expected to place on health services.
“Our appearance here relates to the amendment of Section 39(2A) to increase the penalties from 100,000 penalty units to 15 million penalty units,” McNeil told the committee.
She said the consequences of meth use go far beyond law enforcement and will significantly impact rehabilitation services, health infrastructure and long-term recovery programmes.
“The consequences and effects of meth would have huge financial implications and pressure for health services, rehabilitation, infrastructure and recovery programmes on individuals who may have gone through the effect of meth,” she said.
McNeil described meth manufacturing and distribution as a lucrative business, but stressed that the social cost to the country is far greater.
“It’s a huge business. And therefore, with the cost from our side in terms of providing the services as an end result, this is important for us,” she added.
The MHMS is the custodian of the Dangerous Drugs Act, which is now 84 years old. According to McNeil, the law has not been fully reviewed until recently and contains gaps that limit effective response to emerging drug threats.
She revealed that in November last year, the Minister exercised powers under the Act to gazette a new rule making it illegal to possess, distribute, supply, manufacture or produce methamphetamine in the country.
However, she noted that current penalties under the Act remain inadequate, prompting the urgent push to amend Section 39 to significantly raise fines and allow for life imprisonment where no specific penalty is prescribed.
The ministry believes stronger penalties will not only deter offenders but also help offset the long-term social and economic cost of drug abuse.
The BLC inquiry into the amendment continues next week with submissions from law enforcement agencies, social services and other stakeholders.
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