The National Assembly late this afternoon amended Section 2 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic substances (Control) Act, to control the use of new and emerging psychotropic substances or ‘designer drugs’ being abused especially by young people.

The amendment means that all designer drugs including ecstasy, molly and others which are popular in Guyana, are now captured under the act as illegal narcotics.

Persons found in possession of the substances will be charged and prosecuted.

During his contribution to the amendments, Opposition Member Jermaine Figueira said the Opposition is in full support of the intent of the Bill, but he is not supportive of the penalties proposed.

“The amendment targets young people. So it is a Bill that I will render my support—young people who are users of synthetic (drug) for prosecution with a straight face, Mr. Speaker, and there lies my concern. It doesn’t provide any alternative for our youths, be it first-time offenders or the amount in possession among 15 grams. This Mr. Speaker should of great concern for every Guyanese,” Figueira said.

Culture Minister, Charles Ramson Jr for his part said the mind altering-drugs are harmful to young people, and the amendments made to the Principal legislation are to discourage the use of drugs among young people.

Minister Ramson said the government will continue to work to ensure that the use of the drugs is minimized in its totality in Guyana.

“The government has a holistic approach in dealing with programmes against the use of drugs, making sure that the police, the justice sector has the regulatory and legislative framework and that’s the reason why we are bringing the amendments,” Ramson explained.

While the Opposition has supported the legislation, it said rehabilitation programmes should be made available for those who have become addicted to the designer drugs.

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