Ride Home Safely on the Purple Ribbon Bus!
The National Drug Council (NDC) is once again pleased to announce that the Purple Ribbon Bus service will run this New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2013 from 10pm to 3am. The Purple Ribbon Bus service has been made possible through the generous sponsorship of Greenlight RE, Jacques Scott Group Ltd. and Cayman National Bank. This year marks thirteen (13) years since the inception of the programme, a partnership between the NDC and local organizations to provide the Designated Driver Programme and the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service during the festive Holiday Season. Over the years, thousands of revelers have utilized the free bus service on New Year’s Eve, which was established with the aim of reducing the number of drink driving incidents on our roads. Although many of our residents drive responsibly, there are still those who believe they can drink and then drive safely, despite evidence to the contrary. Drink driving wrecks lives, can lead to arrest and imprisonment, loss of one’s driver’s license, and can ultimately be responsible for taking someone’s life. Thanks to the support of the sponsors, Greenlight RE, Jacques Scott Group Ltd. and Cayman National Bank, who have already agreed to support the “Purple Ribbon Bus” service. The NDC is still seeking additional support to ensure the free buses will be able to operate beginning at 10pm on New Year’s Eve so that the public can utilize this service on Grand Cayman. The goal is to have approximately eight buses from Reid’s Premier Tours running a regular route from West Bay to Bodden Town on New Year’s Eve between the hours of 10:00 pm and 3:00 am. Persons who are interested in using this service should look for the buses from Reid’s Premier Tours with the Purple Ribbons on the front. The buses will run at regular intervals and will pick up passengers at all major restaurants, bars and nightclubs, or at regular bus stops on the route. The Purple Ribbon Buses will run to East End and North Side occasionally. [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Director Joan West-Dacres states, [/blockquote-footer] “We are happy for the support of our sponsors and their pledge of financial support to ensure that the “Purple Ribbon Buses” are made available again this holiday season. We encourage others to sponsor this initiative and help the NDC and your communities have a safe and happy holiday season. Each of us looks forward to celebrating the holidays with our family and friends but our celebrations shouldn’t include drinking and driving!! Plan ahead and ensure you have a safe ride home. Remember that preventing drinking and driving is everyone’s business and we all need to play our role. Don’t drink and drive!” [/blockquote] Designated Driver Programme 2013 Several local restaurants, bars and clubs will participate in the Designated Driver Programme this year. Persons who identify themselves as a Designated Driver to their server can receive free non-alcoholic beverages all evening, and a free purple wristband bracelet. The NDC is grateful for the participating establishments for doing their part in cutting down drink driving during this holiday season. Any other establishments wishing to participate in the Designated Driver Programme should contact the NDC on 949-9000 to confirm their participation and request the free purple wristbands. The message is clear and simple: Don’t Drink & Drive – Either designate a driver or use the “Purple Ribbon Buses”
The Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) 2012 – CYCLE 6
Over the past 12 years the National Drug Council (NDC) has conducted the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS). Cycle six (6) of the survey is scheduled to take place in April 2012. The survey aims; To gain a better understanding of drug use among middle and high school students in the Cayman Islands; To provide a fundamental opportunity for schools, community, private and public entities to develop evidence-based policies and programmes that are geared towards the needs of our youth. To continue in the development and strengthening of prevention programmes and policies; and To continue to track changes in alcohol and drug use patterns. The survey continues to be utilised in the public and private sector including but not limited to; Government Officials, local organisations, special interest groups, and various regional bodies to guide discussions, strategic plans and policies. Moreover, CISDUS allows for comprehensive planning of prevention initiatives by indicating the prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use, the rise of drug abuse, and the distribution of use across all geographic areas of the island. This information is valuable to the country, communities, and schools in targeting prevention initiatives. In addition, the survey collects information about school climate, safety, and important contributing factors to youth risk behaviours that can impede learning. “Having reliable and consistent data allows the development of programming in line with the community’s needs. Our ongoing monitoring through this survey provides our stakeholders with information that would not otherwise be available as we seek to reduce the negative impacts of alcohol and other drugs. We are pleased that so many organisations have been utilizing the data to help strengthen their programming,” says Joan West-Dacres Executive Director for the National Drug Council. Community involvement is essential in the administration of this survey and we are in need of fieldwork assistants for this important survey. Individuals interested will be required to volunteer approximately 1 ½ hours during the weeks of April 23rd to May 4th 2012. In order to administer the survey to students in their classrooms, there will be two sessions, morning and afternoon. Ideally, we need 80 fieldwork assistants in order to collect the data in an efficient and timely manner. If you would like to volunteer please contact us on 949-9000 or email us on info@ndc.ky .
Ride Home Safely on the Purple Ribbon Bus
This New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2011 The National Drug Council (NDC) is pleased to announce that the Purple Ribbon Bus will run from 10pm to 3am. The Purple Ribbon Bus programme has been made possible through sponsorship from Greenlight RE who has very generously donated the funding for this initiative. For over ten (10) years the NDC has partnered with local businesses and restaurants to coordinate the Designated Driver Programme and the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service during the Holiday Season. The community continues to respond tremendously to the free buses on New Year’s Eve, which was established to assist in reducing the number of drinking and driving incidents on our roads. Drink driving wrecks lives, it can lead to arrest, imprisonment, loss of driver’s license, and ultimately being responsible for taking someone’s life. Thanks to the support of Greenlight RE, the free buses will begin operating at 10pm on New Year’s Eve and party goers will again be able to utilize the Purple Ribbon Buses to get around Grand Cayman. Eight Reid’s Premier Tours buses will be travelling a regular route from West Bay to Bodden Town on New Year’s Eve between the hours of 10:00 pm and 3:00 am. Look for the Reid’s Premier Tour Buses with Purple Ribbons and magnets. The buses will run on regular intervals and will pick up passengers at all major restaurants, bars, nightclubs and at regular bus stops along the route. The Purple Ribbon Buses will also be operating to and from East End and North Side. [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Executive Director Joan West-Dacres stated, [/blockquote-footer] “We continue to be extremely grateful for the private sector donors who support initiatives such as this one. We were able to increase the buses from five in 2010 to eight buses in 2011!! There is really no excuse for drinking and driving this New Year’s Eve.”[/blockquote] Be safe, be SMART, don’t drink and drive! Designated Driver Program 2011 This year there are 19 participating restaurants, bars and clubs where people who identify themselves as a Designated Driver to their server, can receive free non-alcoholic drinks all evening and a free purple wristband bracelet. [blockquote]“It’s a great program and we are thankful to the participating establishments for doing their part in cutting down drink driving this holiday season, despite the economic climate.”[/blockquote]
Volunteers – The Heart of the Community
The National Drug Council (NDC) recently carried out its second cycle of the Her Majesty’s Prison Survey (Northward, Fairbanks and Eagle House). The purpose of the survey is to determine programme needs of the prison population as it relates to the delivery of education, treatment, and rehabilitation services for substance abuse. This initiative which is part of the seven priority areas of The National Anti-Drug Strategy 2009-2013, seeks to provide a continuum of treatment services that offer drug users the means to improve their quality of life within the Prisons and successful transition back into the communities in which they live. The survey was facilitated by volunteers from the community as well as representatives from public and private sector agencies. [blockquote]“The volunteers were an invaluable resource and their help and commitment ensured that the survey was facilitated according to the methodology”, [blockquote-footer] stated Luisa McLaughlin, Research and Information Officer NDC.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The survey’s information will assist in the development and implementation of targeted services for inmates. Specifically, treatment and rehabilitation services for substance abusers. All volunteers received training by NDC staff on procedures for administering a survey in a prison environment. Despite the week long initiative, volunteers remained committed. [blockquote]“The Maples Group’s involvement in projects, such as the NDC Survey, is just one of the on-the-go community initiatives in which our staff continue to be involved,” [blockquote-footer]said Wanda Ebanks, Partner at Maples and Calder and one of the survey volunteers.[/blockquote-footer] “Given the nature of the task, particularly that we were asked to administer the survey in a fully functioning prison, it is commendable that the management and staff response was so overwhelming. The prison and NDC organisers did a superb job with ensuring that everyone was comfortable during each session. Fifteen Maples staff members, representing the full spectrum of the firm, including Partners and Senior Associates, took part in the week-long project, which highlights the recognition of the potential value of surveys such as this.” [/blockquote] The role of the volunteers demonstrates that citizens and corporations desire to improve the life of the community thus creating social capital. Volunteers continue to serve on boards and committees, make policy and planning decisions, raise funds and strengthen programmes among other meaningful efforts. [blockquote]“The more social capital there is, the healthier and more vibrant your community” [blockquote-footer] stated Joan West-Dacres, Executive Director of the NDC.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The National Drug Council would like to thank the following companies and individuals. Your service to this country is greatly appreciated. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; it’s the only thing that ever has”
Parents In Control: Parents as Preventers Workshop
The National Drug Council (NDC) is pleased to have hosted “Parents as Preventers” a substance abuse education and prevention workshop for the group “Neighbourhood Moms.” This workshop is geared towards parents of teenagers and is facilitated by Prevention Officer, Mr. Simon Miller. The NDC was approached by “Neighbourhood Moms” in May 2011 to offer this prevention-based workshop to its members in an effort to help prevent drug and alcohol use among children. “Parents as Preventers” which was developed by the National Drug Council is a series of free workshops designed for parents and caregivers. The workshops include but isn’t limited to topics such as; local drug trends, basic knowledge on detecting substance use, maintain good communication, being a positive role model, and teaching children to choose friends wisely, to name a few. The workshop is a component of the National Anti-Drug Strategy in fulfilling the strategy that seeks to strengthen and assist families and communities affected by drug abuse. The National Anti-Drug Strategy is the blueprint for the Cayman Islands’ response to the misuse and abuse of both illicit and legal drugs, including alcohol, tobacco and prescription drugs. [blockquote]“With the implementation of the National Anti-Drug Strategy 2009-2013, the Government aims to significantly reduce the prevalence of drug use amongst the Cayman Islands population, thereby minimising social harm and damage to the well-being of our society”, [blockquote-footer] stated Joan West-Dacres Executive Director of the NDC.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] According to the most recent Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey, over 30% of students reported having a family member with a severe alcohol or drug problem. Equally significant, when asked if students felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with their parents 51% said no to mothers and 31% said no to their fathers. [blockquote]“Communication is paramount”, [blockquote-footer] stated Simon Miller Facilitator of Parents as Preventers.[/blockquote-footer] “Research tells us that two out of every three young people who start drinking before the age of 15 will try an illicit drug. Parents must be aware of behaviours that signal warnings and most importantly be equipped to address them. Too often parents fall in the trap of attributing certain behaviours to adolescence thus avoiding communication”.[/blockquote] The workshop illustrates possible signs of drug use which includes a drop in grades, secretive behaviour regarding actions or possessions, new friends, and a change in activities. Moreover, it provides strategies for families already facing the problem of alcohol and drug use with their children and encourages them to seek professional help. The Parent as Preventers workshop is free for parents, through the NDC. Parents who complete 4-week sessions receive a certificate, professional contacts, and a resource package. Parents interested in more information about the Parents as Preventers workshop can contact the NDC at 949-9000 or by email at info@ndc.ky or visit www.ndc.ky for additional resources.
The 26 of June is International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) continues to lead the global campaign to raise awareness about the major challenge that illicit drugs represent to society as a whole, and especially to the young. This years’ theme is “Your life. Your community. No Place for Drugs”. The goal of the campaign is to mobilise support and inspire people to act against drug use by raising global awareness. The National Drug Council (NDC) invites individuals, non-profit organisations, government and the private sector to get involved by: Organising office events to commemorate the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Spreading the word about the campaign through your own networks and contacts (tweets, Facebook, messaging, blogs and email). Using the campaign slogan and logo in promotional products, websites and social media. [blockquote]“Preventing or delaying use of psychoactive drugs, alcohol, and tobacco among adolescents is a critical national public health goal. The simplest and most cost-effective way to lower the human and societal costs of drug abuse is to prevent it in the first place”, [blockquote-footer] said Joan West-Dacres Executive Director of the NDC.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] More than 50% of students in the Cayman Islands do not use illegal drugs (CISDUS 2010). Many people who once used illegal drugs have now rejected them; many suffered as a result of drug abuse. Accidents, addiction, criminal involvement, damaged relationships, impaired judgment, and lost educational or employment opportunities were common. Of those persons who currently use illegal drugs, some are chronic abusers. Preventing Cayman’s 6000 plus children from using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco will help safeguard our society. [blockquote]“Preventing drug abuse is one of the best investments we can make in our country’s future”, [blockquote-footer] stated Simon Miller, Prevention Officer.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Doing so is preferable to dealing with the consequences of drug abuse through law enforcement or drug treatment. [blockquote]“Prevention is most promising when it is directed at impressionable youngsters”, [blockquote-footer] said Mr. Miller.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Adolescents are most susceptible to the allure of illicit drugs. Delaying or preventing the first use of illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco is essential. Prevention programmes are not vaccinations that inoculate children against substance abuse. Sadly, significant numbers of young people who participate in the best programmes will go on to use drugs. The “no-use” message must be reinforced consistently by parents, teachers, coaches, mentors, and other care givers. The National Drug Council‘s scientific research continues to play a major role in informing many local bodies on issues of substance abuse misuse through its Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS). The UNDCO’s 2011 campaign seeks to mobilise support and inspire people to act against drug use. Therefore, the National Drug Council encourages everyone to spread the message “No Place for Drugs” . For more information please call the NDC at Tel. 949-9000, Fax. 949-6264, email: info@ndc.ky or visit us on the web www.ndc.ky
New Look for NDC
The National Drug Council (NDC) is positioning itself to play a growing role in establishing drug prevention and rehabilitation policies for the Cayman Islands, starting with a brand new logo. [blockquote]“We are very excited about our new and fresh brand. It is representative of our efforts and mandate, while the contemporary color palette and design reflect the fact that we are continuously developing and growing,” [blockquote-footer] Executive Director Joan West-Dacres stated.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Mrs. West-Dacres further explained that the new logo mirrors the council’s main functions: [/blockquote-footer] “The ‘N’ signifies the three pillars of the work of the NDC, namely policy and prevention, research and information and monitoring and evaluation. These three ‘pillars’ creates the “N” in national to represent the council’s national efforts.” [/blockquote] She added: “The ‘N’ is also dynamic in its presentation and it demonstrates our innovativeness, which is how we want to be viewed. The stars symbolises the three islands and they are in the ‘control’ of the ‘C’ representing the council’s efforts in drug control for our islands. [blockquote]“The blue is representative of our Islands’ close bond with the ocean and the movement and slanting of the letters to the right signifies our progress and continual forward motion,” [blockquote-footer] she concluded.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The NDC is an independent statutory body set up under the National Drug Council Law (1997) to co-ordinate anti-drug measures in the Cayman Islands through policy and prevention, research and information and monitoring and evaluation. As such, its main functions include reviewing drug use trends, formulating and developing drug prevention and rehabilitation policies and programmes; drug-use surveys and public education. The National Drug Council is currently made up of the following members: Mrs. Dorothy Crumbley; Chairman, Mr. Rayle Roberts, Vice-Chairman; and members Ms. Margaret RamsayHale, Dr. Mark Lockhart, Mr. Mark C. Campbell, Mrs. Teresa Echenique-Bowen, Mr. Ricardo Forbes. Government representation includes the chief officers of the Ministry of Health, Environment, Youth, Sports and Culture, the Ministry of Community Affairs, Gender and Housing and the Ministry of Finance. The Commissioner of Police and the Minister of Finance, or their representatives are also part of the council. The staff members responsible for the day-to day operations are Mrs. West-Dacres, Prevention Officer Simon Miller, Research and Information Officer Luisa McLaughlin, Administrative & Finance Officer Kimberlee McLean and Administrative Assistant Ruby McLaughlin. For more information on the NDC’s programmes, go to www.ndc.ky or call 949-9000 to schedule a workshop. Or visit them at #17 Caymanian Village, North Sound Way
NDC Toughens Policy
Apart from a renewed focus on prevention and public education, the National Drug Council (NDC) continues to advocate for tough legislation and strong policies to bolster the countries efforts in tackling substance use, misuse and abuse. [blockquote]“One of our main goals is to reach out to students. As such, we have recently completed our review of the National School Misuse of Drugs Policy and we will continue to advocate for drug education as part of the National Curriculum and addressed the following,” [blockquote-footer]said NDC Coordinator and Executive Director Joan WestDacres.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote]“Programmes need to be on-going, age appropriate, consistent with the culture of drug abuse and locally relevant, which is why we would like to see drug education become part of the curriculum for all students K-12,” [blockquote-footer]Mrs. West-Dacres explained.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] This work is of course supported by the NDC’s robust research which provides the council with a reliable base on which to ground policy and programme development and requests. [blockquote]“We collect and collate data annually, giving us a reliable view of the true drug use situation in the Cayman Islands,” [blockquote-footer]Mrs. West-Dacres noted.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Some of the NDC’s publications include the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey which contains information on student alcohol, tobacco, ganja and other illicit drug use as well as quarterly and annual reports to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). Apart from research and public education, the NDC also have the responsibility for the oversight (monitoring and evaluation) of the implementation of the National AntiDrug Strategy 2009-2013 (NADS). The NADS is a comprehensive document that provides strategic direction for the development of programmes, allocation of funds, and a means to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the plan and the effectiveness of the programmes developed to address the drug issues throughout the Cayman Islands. It addresses both illegal (marijuana, cocaine) and legal substances (alcohol and tobacco). [blockquote]“In all these tasks, we believe in building strong relationships with all stakeholders and we meet on a regular basis other departments such as Customs, Education Services as well as with other interest groups such as the Mental Health Task Force. Our strength lies in our multi-faceted approach to curbing drug abuse and we hope to continue our strong partnerships with all,” [blockquote-footer] Mrs. West-Dacres concluded.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The NDC is an independent statutory body set up under the National Drug Council Law (1997) to co-ordinate anti-drug measures in the Cayman Islands through policy and prevention, research and information and monitoring and evaluation. As such, its main functions include reviewing drug use trends, formulating and developing drug prevention and rehabilitation policies and programmes; drug-use surveys and public education. For more information on the NDC’s programmes, go to www.ndc.ky or call 949-9000 to schedule a workshop. Or visit them at #17 Caymanian Village, North Sound Way.
NDC at Work
With a brand new logo and renewed direction, the National Drug Council (NDC) is looking at strengthen its role in curbing drug abuse in the Cayman Islands with several plans. [blockquote]“A lot of our work is behind-the-scenes, such as research and policy development. However, one of our most important mandates is preventing drug use. To this end, we have developed a number of new initiatives to address substance abuse in our communities,” [blockquote-footer] NDC Coordinator and Executive Director Joan West-Dacres said.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote]“These educational initiatives are multi-faceted and targets youth, parents, teachers as well as employers. They are all aimed at reducing the negative impacts on of drug use, misuse and abuse,” [blockquote-footer] Mrs. West-Dacres further explained.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] Initiatives are: Early Elementary Drug Awareness Prevention Workbook – This educational booklet was designed for use in the classroom and home and explains the concepts and negative impacts of substance use and misuse/abuse. Parents as Preventers Training – This training module empowers parents as preventers through teaching them the signs and symptoms of substance use and abuse. The sessions are conducted upon request at public and private schools in Grand Cayman. Workplace Training – This workplace workshop highlights the benefits of a drug-free workplace. It also encourages workers with alcohol and drug problems to seek help. This workshop is conducted upon request. Teachers as Preventers Training – This programme educates teachers on some of the early warning signs of substance abuse, as well as provides them with the information and skills that can help them take a positive approach in dealing with preteens and teens in their classrooms. The workshop focuses on: What is happening locally with drug use and young people; Reading the signs; and creating a positive classroom environment. The NDC, an independent statutory body, was set up under the National Drug Council Law (1997), to assist government in reviewing drug use trends, formulating and developing drug prevention and rehabilitation policies and programmes; conducting drug-use surveys and spearheading public education. For more information on the NDC’s programmes, go to www.ndc.ky or call 949-9000 to schedule a workshop. Or visit them at #17 Caymanian Village, North Sound Way.
International Recovery Month
In Observance of International Recovery Month which bears the theme “Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Learn, Together We Heal”. The National Drug Council in the Cayman Islands along with treatment agencies and allied organizations will join many countries around the world in efforts to highlight the societal benefits of substance abuse treatment, praise the contributions of treatment providers and promote the message that recovery from substance abuse in all its forms is possible. Among its efforts the National Drug Council will be launching its monthly public service announcements titled “Health Minute”. The Health Minute is a public service announcement feature provided free of charge to the National Drug Council by media outlets throughout the Cayman Islands. The Health Minute is a component of the NDC’s Anti-Drug Media Campaign which seeks to improve the health and wellbeing of persons by enhancing awareness on the dangers of alcohol and other drug use, misuse and abuse. This month’s Health Minute segment will be aired through media outlets and will highlight the topic of treatment. Persons seeking information on RECOVERY should contact the Department of Counselling Services 949-8789, The Wellness Center 949-9355, Employee Assistance Programme 949-9559 or Terry Delaney 526-1378. Be sure to listen out for this month’s “Health Minute”. For more information please call the NDC at Tel. 949-9000, Fax. 949-6264 or email: info@ndc.ky
Observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
This year marks the conclusion of the empowering three-year United Nations Campaign titled “Your life. Your community. No place for drugs”. This Friday, the 26th of June 2009 launches the annual International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The National Drug Council will join with the United Nations and countries around the world to recognize this important day and reinforce its’ message that illegal drugs have no place in our community. This year, Cayman will showcase its efforts to the rest of the world by expanding its initiatives over a twelve (12) week period known as the Anti-Drug Media Campaign. The aim is further promote and expand on current NDC initiatives which provides comprehensive training to professionals and organizations who are seeking solutions. The Anti-Drug Campaign will include ongoing partnership with Hollywood Theaters at Camana Bay as well as training and resources for parents, teachers, and the community. The campaign will be reflective of the United Nations Theme “Your community. No place for drugs” by advocating drug education in the Cayman community and allowing United Nation countries such as Uzbekistan, Thailand, and India to share and learn from our initiatives. Our local perspective and goals for combating substance abuse are documented in the global arena. Therefore, expanding our platforms further lends to the methods and strategies developed in supporting the international community in combating the drug abuse epidemic. For more information please call the NDC at Tel. 949-9000, Fax. 949-6264 or email: info@ndc.ky
The National Anti‐Drug Strategy 2009‐2013
On October 8th and 9th 2008 The National Drug Council (NDC) in Conjunction with the Honourable Anthony S. Eden, OBE, JP, Minister for Health and Human Services hosted the 2008 National Anti-Drug Strategic Planning Meeting, where we presented a draft of the National Anti-Drug Strategy for The Cayman Islands 2009-2013. The draft of the National Anti-Drug Strategy for the Cayman Islands is a strategic framework to address the unique drug control needs of the Cayman Islands in both demand and supply reduction. On April 14th 2009 Cabinet approved “A Comprehensive Plan for Drug Control – The National Anti-Drug Strategy 2009-2013.” The ultimate aim of the strategy is to significantly reduce the prevalence of substance abuse and misuse amongst the Cayman population and to minimise the social harm and health damages it causes in society. The development of such an important document will assist the Cayman Islands in setting out the Government and its stake holder’s commitment to addressing the issues related to substance abuse and misuse in the Cayman Islands in a coordinated, efficient and effective manner. This five-year Strategy summarizes national policies and recommends the strategies in the national interest, to combat the drug problem. Drug abuse and illicit trafficking are worldwide phenomena and a rapidly changing social and economic climate, coupled with increased availability; accessibility and acceptability have contributed to the increasing magnitude of Cayman’s substance abuse problems. There has been an increase in social and economic factors which make people, especially the young more vulnerable and likely to engage in substance use and drug-related risk-taking behaviour. The broad consultative approach which we have taken in the development of this document seeks to ensure that the most comprehensive tools for addressing the national drug situation have been considered and articulated. The NDC through ongoing annual strategic meetings and stakeholder contacts continued to be made aware of the need for a more coordinated, proactive and integrated approach to the issues of drug control. It is essential for coordination to occur and for effective and sound financial spending in regards to matters of a National Anti-Drug Plan and we are excited about the revitalization of a National Strategy. It is with this I share the National Anti-Drug Strategy 2009-2013 with you.