Retailers get tough over P

Published: 6:25PM Thursday May 15, 2008 Source: ONE News

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Foodstuffs is taking action against the Moerewa Four Square owner who has been knowingly selling ingredients used to make P.

The story, broken by ONE News, is also prompting debate among retailers about their role in fighting the deadly drug.

Foodstuffs says that as a family brand "standards for all members must be high" and "it appears those standards may not have been met on this occasion".

The investigation has also been a wake-up call for other shopkeepers.

Russell Sinclair from the Retailers Association believes they have a responsibility to educate retailers in what the ingredients are that are being used in making methamphetamine, or P.

"Make them aware of that in the first instance then perhaps we need to start talking to the police about the control of those products," says Sinclair.

P is one of the few drugs that can be mixed up in the kitchen with ingredients readily available in stores, but most shopkeepers don't know what those products are.

"Methamphetamine users, dealers and manufacturers have got the upper hand because they know what's going on and most people don't. We take that power away from them by having knowledge, education deterrents in the right areas, we know it works...I've seen the research overseas,"
drug educator Mike Sabin says.

NZ's largest network of home improvement stores, Mitre 10, is also trying to do its bit to educate its staff. It is rolling out a nationwide programme with the police to educate staff on potential products that could be used to make P.

Foodstuffs agrees and is launching an education programme following the stories on ONE News.

Sabin is pleased with these moves.

"The goal should be limit the way the chemicals can get there, reduce the purity of methamphetamine, reduce the addiction and reduce the crime," the former police officer says.

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