More and more drug treatment agencies will be forced to approach the private sector for funding this year after the Council Partners Charitable Trust (CPCT) was disbanded and the budget for the National Drug Commission (NDC) was not increased.

The NDC has taken steps to rationalise their financial support to drug treatment agencies after funding from Government to the organisation remained unchanged this year, NDC CEO Don Philip said yesterday.

With the absence of direct financial assistance to many agencies from the now-disbanded CPCT, money from the NDC is the only funding many drug agencies will receive during this current fiscal year ? a situation which will force more and more to lobby the private sector for cash.

NDC CEO Don Philip said it is important to note the Minister of Health and Family Services has previously remarked that the level of funding to agencies would not be the same as in the past.

The Minister has also said that, based on performance, success in accomplishing goals and objectives, and the future sustainability of these agencies, a review of the continued level of funding would occur.

In the meantime, several agencies have already sought private assistance, putting them in a stronger position than others. A NDC statement added: "As the scourge of drugs and addiction is a societal problem that requires both Government and the community to solve, it is hoped that more agencies will work with the community and the private sector to obtain additional funding."

Dr. Philip added: "The NDC is looking to be creative by pairing some agency initiatives with ongoing community projects which would provide additional revenue streams."

The NDC will continue discussions with agencies, the private sector and the Ministry of Health to create partnerships assisting agencies with moving forward, the statement said.