The gauntlet was thrown down by the National Drugs Commission.

The chairman of the commission's Interim Steering Committee yesterday said it was time for churches to get involved.

Mr. Alastair Macdonald urged: "The church has a responsibility to support the Commission in its efforts''.

And he added: "Churches are powerful. You must make it a part of your mission and become increasingly involved.'' He made his plea during a meeting with church ministers at the Palm Reef Hotel.

The ministers were given booklets outlining the commission's objectives.

Mr. Macdonald told them it was time for the church to become "a catalyst in the identification and referral of people with addictions''.

He said there were three main steps toward accomplishing that goal.

Churches must make substance abuse a part of their mission, set up committees to focus on that goal, and implement it.

Mr. Macdonald pointed out that about 10 per cent of Bermuda's population was addicted to drugs or alcohol.

And there was an increase in people with many different addictions.

But Mr. Macdonald was careful to point out that the fight against drugs and their impact was one involving the whole community.

"This problem will require the efforts of a lot of people and organisations.

"We are committed to eliminating the harmful effects of drug and alcohol use in Bermuda.'' "We believe in the right and responsibility of every individual in Bermuda to contribute to this effort.''