The Bermuda Youth Counselling Services programme, which is a joint project between the National Drug Commission and the Ministry of Education, was initially scheduled to open in October, according to Education Minister Jerome Dill.

During a Press conference held that month, Mr. Dill said the programme was geared toward helping students who experimented with alcohol and other drugs or whose parents abused drugs.

"For some time we have been in talks with the National Drug Commission, which has also considered programmes for reducing behavioural problems in students that may be alcohol-or-drug-related,'' he said. "Together we have developed a plan, based on a student assistance model which is similar to the Employee Assistance Programme, to help students resolve their problems and change their behaviour.'' Mr. Dill further explained that the programme will allow schools -- with the consent of parents -- to refer students to the service for assessment, "something not possible under the current Student Services operation''.

Students will be interviewed and a comprehensive plan will be designed for each student's individual needs.

But yesterday NDC executive director Derek Binns said the NDC had not yet finalised plans on the new agency and its location. However, he added that the plans for the programme were "moving along very well''.

Dr. Binns also confirmed that a programme manager had been selected, but was not yet able to disclose who had been chosen.

Although the programme is primarily directed toward school students, the resources will be available to everyone between the ages of 10 and 24.