Drug abuse is ruining the life of many young people all over the world – from all walks of life and social standing, he said. Moreover, the problem is spilling over into other areas, especially crime. “Many of the thefts and other more serious offences in our country are drug-related,” he said. He mentioned the committee convened by former President Guido de Marco to discuss the drug abuse issue from a social and legal standpoint. The committee includes many of the stakeholders involved, such as officials from the police force and agencies such as Sedqa and Caritas.

The minister recalled his promise to propose the necessary amendments to the law once the committee had prepared a report. With the Opposition also in favour of this reform, Dr Borg said he was optimistic that that the process can be a speedy one.