It says a separate alcohol strategy will give great focus on the Island's binge drinking problems.

PAG has submitted an eight-page document to the Chief Minister outlining its case.

Chairman Roger Tomlinson said: 'Researching the structure of the existing combined Drug and Alcohol Strategy reinforced

our opinion that a more targeted approach is urgently needed.

'Alcohol is a socially acceptable, legal substance that can cause a disproportionate raft of problems for individuals and society

generally. We are at a stage where these problems are causing widespread unease.

'In no way are we criticising the efforts of all the personnel involved at present in the drugs and alcohol strategy. They do good work. It is rather that the delivery structures need to be revamped to be more dynamic and focused.

'This in turn would allow a more pro-active drug strategy to be enforced – after all, these are illegal substances which serve to seriously undermine our Island society.'

Other proposals within the submission include co-ordination of treatment services to create an Island alcohol treatment system, reducing the drink-drive limit and making the DHSS responsible for the new stand alone alcohol strategy, with a political member responsible for driving the policy forward.

PAG's submission can be read on its website at www.positiveactiongroup.org

WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Send your comments to newsviews@newsiom.co.im