WEST Australian Senator Linda Reynolds has welcomed the establishment of a National Ice Taskforce as part of the Coalition Government’s efforts to counter the endemic use of the illicit drug ice.

The Taskforce, announced by Prime Minister Tony Abbott today, will develop a national plan to tackle the growing health and social crisis caused by the drug.

“Ice use is a rising epidemic which affects the lives of thousands of individuals, families and communities across WA, particularly in our rural and regional areas,” Senator Reynolds said.

“The Australian Crime Commission has stated that ice poses the highest risk to the Australian community, with illicit usage rates almost doubling in just 12 months.

“Unfortunately a growing number of Australians, including West Australians are touched by the ice epidemic every day.”

Senator Reynolds said it was important that all states, territories and communities take this problem seriously and get involved with the fight against ice.

“Research shows the use of ice continues to rise nationally, and tragically WA has the highest rate of increase,” she said.

The Taskforce will be led by former Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Ken Lay APM and overseen by Assistant Minister for Health Fiona Nash and Minister for Justice Michael Keenan.

It will also collect information from several sources including the community and the Australian National Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drugs before presenting an interim report to government by mid-year.

“The Prime Minister will take the report the Council of Australian Governments to ensure the campaign against ice is fought in a coordinated, targeted and effective fashion,” she said.

The Taskforce will also seek submissions and feedback from the community and expert groups to ensure that all Australians affected by ice have the opportunity to provide input.

–ENDS–