Three graduates of Drug Court were lauded by a Government minister, lawyers and judges at a ceremony in Supreme Court yesterday.

The trio had the slate wiped clean for the crimes they committed while under the influence of drugs after keeping their promise to stay off substances and away from crime.

The Drug Court programme is open to offenders who commit to constant testing, supervision and rehabilitation although violent and sexual offenders are not eligible.

Receiving the plaudits were Leslie Grant, Stephen Berkeley and Albert Santucci. Mr. Santucci, who started the programme in September 2001, said: ?My life begins as of today.?

Also getting honoured were Andrew Simons, Shawn Smith and Kevin Burgess who had reached the final phase of the programme during which they must stay drug-free for a year.

Andre Simons, who started the programme in October 2002, thanked those who had helped him. He said: ?It isn?t how many times you fall down, it is how many times you get up. I am planning to stand up.?

Mr. Burgess was praised by drug court magistrate Carlisle Greaves who admitted he thought he would never succeed in the course but had been extremely happy to have been proved wrong. Mr. Greaves stepped down from the podium to shake Mr. Burgess? hand and said: ?I don?t mind being humbled sometimes.?

Health Minister Patrice Minors said the drug court system united parties normally in conflict for a common goal, including the courts, Police, the prosecution and defence lawyers.

?The first ever report card on the effectiveness of Drug Courts in the Unites States finds that the courts increase access to treatment, reduce criminal recidivism and save local municipalities money.

?The study was released by the White House, office of the National Drug Control Policy this week.

?Our early indications are that our successes will take on a similar profile as our current statistics reflect above average rates of compliance.?

She urged the graduates to keep up their good work and said ?destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice?.

She added: ?This Government is committed to eradicating social ills.

?This programme is a testament to our efforts and accomplishments.?