NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has said that changes to the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act, which come into effect tomorrow, would see convicted ‘ice’ manufacturers and dealersserve a maximum penalty of life in imprisonment, rather than the 20 years currently allowed.
Mr Marshall welcomed the changes, saying it brought drug laws in NSW better in line with community expectations around the drug ice and the disastrous impacts it has on individuals, their families and the community.
“Ice manufacturers and dealers are now on notice that they continue to peddle their disgusting drugs they face the increased prospect of life behind bars,” Mr Marshall said.
“Anyone found manufacturing or in possession for the purposes of supply of a quantity of ice of or above 500 grams will be charged with an offence which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
“Drug manufacturers and dealers, particularly those involved in ice, profit from the misery and misfortune of others. They must be held to a higher account and punished accordingly.”
Mr Marshall said he was pleased the State Government was taking decisive action to meet community expectations and ensure the most serious ice manufacturers and dealers were brought to justice.
Under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 all amphetamines, including ice, are prohibited. Charges of manufacture and supply of these drugs now will carry terms of up to life imprisonment.
Assistant Minister for Health Pru Goward said the government recognised the need to focus on earlier detection and expanding treatment services for people trying to get clean from this life destroying drug before addiction takes hold.
“Our $11 million investment will deliver more targeted services that keep people off ice and out of emergency rooms,” Ms Goward said.