NARRABRI Shire Council minutes from the Crime Prevention Committee generated discussion at a recent council meeting regarding illegal drug use in the Shire.

Cr Navin Erathnage, a Narrabri doctor, raised concerns about the ongoing problem of drug use, particularly among younger people.

“I have seen many people affected by drugs,” Cr Erathnage said.

“I know the drug problem is quite common in Australia, and compared to other towns, Narrabri was quite good.

“But at this stage, I think Narrabri has caught up and is now a hotspot.

“I’m facing these people every day. We don’t have much crime in Narrabri compared to other towns, but the drug problem is quite dangerous,” he said.

Cr Ryan Whillas agreed with Cr Erathnage, saying a local PCYC  program concludes at the end of this financial year, with no further planned funding due to reduction of crime statistics in the area.

“To me that seems counterproductive,” Cr Ryan said.”

“It’s a program that’s clearly proven to reduce youth crime. So, it’s something that really, we should be trying to continue, instead of letting the crime build back up, getting a problem again and then trying to bring in a solution once again. It’s an endless wheel.”

As well as confirming the minutes of the Crime Prevention Advisory Committee Meeting, councillors resolved that the mayor and general manager advocate for continued funding for the PCYC in Wee Waa.