Subj: Australia: Parents to be taught about drugs

Date: Apr 28, 1998

Source: Sydney Morning Herald

PARENTS TO BE TAUGHT ABOUT DRUGS

Parents across NSW are going back to school to learn how to protect their
teenagers against drugs.

Parents will be told how to deal with an overdose and also urged to be on
the lookout for warning signs that indicate their children are experimenting
with drugs or using them.

The Government yesterday announced that all State secondary schools would
hold public meetings to inform parents, students and the community about
drug education and prevention strategies.

The Premier, Mr Carr, said specially trained teachers, health officials and
police will be at the meetings to provide information about drugs: the
risks, the health effects, likelihood of problems developing and how parents
can protect their children.

The education program will cost $4 million.