Moray SNP News

MSP SHOCKED BY RISE IN MORAY DRUG DEATHS

Richard Lochhead MSP has responded to the increase in the number of drug related deaths in Moray last year. 

Figures published by the National Records of Scotland reported that the number of drug deaths in Moray increased from 7 in 2017 to 17 in 2018.

Commenting Moray’s SNP MSP said:

“The local community will be shocked by the number of drug related deaths in Moray and this is a tragic reminder that substance misuse is a major problem in all parts of Scotland and not just the cities. Lives are being lost at an unacceptable rate right here on our own doorstep.

“These are not just statistics, these are lives that have been cut short and families and friends deeply affected by tragedy.

“It is quite clear that we’re facing a national emergency in relation to drug use and Moray is not immune.

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s new taskforce that will look at the main causes of drug related deaths and what changes to the law could help save lives, but we also need the UK Government to act to allow the implementation of a public health response. 

“If they won’t do that they should devolve power to the Scottish Parliament so we can take action to save lives in Moray and across the country.”