Media Statement

11 July 2013

Psychoactive Substances Bill Finally Passed Into Law

Community leaders in Manurewa and Papakura are welcoming news that the Psychoactive Substances Bill has finally been passed into law.

"We are pleased to see this bill become law," Says Manurewa Local Board Chair Angela Dalton. "For too long we have seen the harm these legal highs do to our community. We can't wait to see these drugs off the shelves in our community now that the law is changed.

"We want to see the law changed urgently, and we are pleased that the Government has been listening to Manurewa's vocal support of this legislation. We are also thankful that both Manurewa based MP's voted in favour of this important legislation.

"Over 3500 signatures were presented to the Associate Minister of Health from Manurewa residents opposed to the 'high zone' store in Manurewa

Manurewa-Papakura Councillor Calum Penrose welcomes this law change.

"While the 'high zone' store in Manurewa has been getting a lot of opposition, what many people don't realise is that these stores are open across South Auckland and these products are sold in many corner dairies." Says Councillor Calum Penrose

"This legislation will rid these products from our streets and introduce a new regime that these drugs must be proven safe before they can get anywhere near the counter.

"This legislation is urgently needed to protect the young people, especially the young people in Manurewa." Says Mr Penrose.

Manurewa Local Board member Simeon Brown says he has seen overwhelming community support for this legislation.

"The Manurewa community has spoken as one on this issue, and young people have been at the forefront of the opposition to these drugs. The Manurewa Youth Council, Warriors of Changes Youth Leaders, and other youth leaders such as Ben Tamarau, Susan Fotunga and Mel Ngata have all been crucial to seeing this legislation changed.

"This legislation is about protecting young people from the unquantified harm of these drugs. No-one knows what the long-term health effects of these drugs are on people, and this worries me, particularly with the stories I hear of young people taking these substances and being damaged by them.

"I can't wait to see these drugs off our street ." Mr Brown concludes.

ENDS

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