A drug rehabilitation charity has warned about the dangers of underestimating cocaine and synthetic drugs, saying that the attitude that everything except heroin was dangerous was doing great harm to society.

In view of the ongoing drugs debate, the OASI Foundation yesterday published the report on a conference held last summer, which was organized by OASI as well as the Floriana, Mosta and Naxxar local councils.

OASI had strongly condemned the decriminalisation of cannabis, describing it as a ‘betrayal.’

Parliament is currently debating a Bill on the production of cannabis for medicinal products.

“While the public at large is afraid of heroin, the same cannot be said for cannabis, synthetic drugs, cocaine and alcohol,” it said, noting that requests for treatment from dependence from the latter two had increased. It also noted that the police were making more regular seizures of cocaine and synthetics.

In its conference report, OASI makes a number of recommendations, which include studies and deterrents against drug driving. The group is calling for a study on the prevalence of drug driving, noting that no records are kept on deaths caused by people driving under the influence of drugs.

OASI said the authorities need to explore more effective sanctions against drug driving, adding that on-the-spot drug tests are “essential.”

Drug trafficking and abuse should have a more prominent place on the national agenda, it says, while there should be an analysis on the reasons why drugs are being promoted at all levels.

More should be done to ensure that the prison acts as a correctional facility, but on the other hand the law should be changed so that fewer people go to jail and more are given care and rehabilitation opportunities, it says.

It also said the country needs to focus on constructive, rather than punitive methods, like mandatory therapy, animal therapy and community work.

People caught in possession of drugs should be educated about drug abuse and its effects.

It is also proposing increasing awareness among parents and guardians on drugs, especially on new products on the market, while there should also be the facility for parents to test suspicious substances found in their childrens’ possession.

OASI is also urging for harsher penalties for those who encourage or force children under the age of 14 to take drugs. There also need to be more services, like rehabilitation, for people under 18.

It also says there need to be more controlled entertainment and creative spaces for youths.

It also says efforts should be made to ensure that sports remain free of drugs, noting that stimulant and steroid abuse has increased significantly.

Another proposal is for the setting up of a Poison Control Centre, which would analyse and gather information on all forms of substances, poisonings and intoxications.

The foundation also proposes the creation of a ‘Booze bus’ – a new form of transport taking intoxicated and inebriated people back home from entertainment spots, with onboard medical assistance.