Sarah Courtney,Minister for Health
The Hodgman majority Liberal Government is today taking strong action to further protect Tasmanians from the scourge of drugs in our community by introducing legislation to ban the sale and display of ice pipes by retailers and wholesalers.
The misuse of illicit substances is a very important issue in our community, which is why I am pleased to be delivering our election promise to strengthen Tasmania’s response to the problems posed by ice in our society.
We know the current law sends a mixed message where the drug is illegal, but the paraphernalia used to consume it has been available for purchase in some retailers with no specific powers to prevent it.
The Poisons Amendment Bill 2019 will fix this contradiction and provide for quick and decisive action to limit the visibility of ice pipes to the general public, as well as introduce the power for Health Inspectors and Tasmanian Police to issue on-the-spot fines to any retailer or wholesaler found to be selling or displaying these devices. The changes also provide enforcement powers related to the seizure and destruction of devices found by Police or Inspectors.
We know the significant harm and costs this drug has on individuals, their families and the broader Tasmanian community. This is why we are taking clear action to better align our laws regarding illicit drugs and reinforce the very strong message to Tasmanians that the use of ice is illegal, highly addictive and dangerous to health, and to further discourage its use.
All Tasmanians deserve to live in safety and free from the harm of drugs, and this Bill is another important step towards delivering our commitment to protect our community and the Tasmanian way of life.
