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BERMUDA | RSS PODCAST

Report on drug use released

Michael Dunkley, the Premier and Minister of National Security

Marijuana, heroin and cocaine remain the most commonly used illegal drugs in Bermuda, according to the annual report from the Bermuda Drug Information Network.

The study by the Department of National Drug Control, released today, provides analysis of trends in drug use in 2013 and 2014

According to a press release from the Ministry of National Security, it presents national data on the nature and magnitude of use and misuse of legal and illegal substances in Bermuda and represents the work of a broad spectrum of agencies and departments engaged in drug prevention, intervention, treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, enforcement, interdiction, and health.

The release states: “Drug use is a difficult and complex phenomenon to monitor. This report serves the purpose of providing a comprehensive overview of the current drug situation in Bermuda using multiple sources and indicators, with the intent of providing insight into the different aspects of the drug problem.”

The report monitors and accounts for local drug-related information from about 30 data providers, covering some 45 drug control areas, and providing measures for more than 150 indicators. Since last year, it has expanded to include four new measures and one new survey.

Drug use prevalence has remained constant among Bermuda’s residents over the past ten years, with alcohol, tobacco and marijuana the most commonly used substances among the general adult population and youths, while the heroin and cocaine remain drugs of choice for problem drug users.

Since 2014, drug-related crime has declined and there were no cases where drug use contributed to the underlying cause of death.

Michael Dunkley, the Premier and Minister of National Security, stated: “The Government is committed to a healthier and safer Bermuda and an interconnected balancing of drug control efforts in both supply and demand reduction.

“Drugs continue to jeopardise the health, safety and welfare of people throughout the world; and Bermuda is no exception, as substance abuse continues to negatively impact our island extensively.

“Drug use prevention cannot occur unless there is change in our social attitudes toward alcohol and drug misuse.”

The report can be found at www.dndc.gov.bm.