'Isle of Man could drive drug reform innovation'

Campaigners discuss the benefits at Positive Action Group meeting

The Isle of Man could be a driver in drug reform innovation here and across the British Isles. 

That was the message from panel members at the Pathways to Drug Law Reform meeting hosted by Positive Action Group. 

Ray Lakeman, a father of two sons who died after buying ecstasy off the dark web, was one of the guests.

He estimates there are around 10 drug-related deaths on the Island each year, and says government needs to be honest about 'what's happening' here on Island due to narcotics:

The event was attended by over 20 people. 

Neil Woods, a former undercover police officer in England was another guest. 

He says 'drug seizures' by police aren't the success they seem:

Neil adds the Isle of Man should look to follow in the lead of Portugal, Spain and Canada:

In response, the Isle of Man Constabulary says: "The Chief Constable recognises the importance of approaches which seek to reduce drug-related harm and divert people away from abusing controlled drugs. The Isle of Man Constabulary (IOM) already operates a Drugs Arrest Referral Scheme (DARS), which provides a proportionate response for those found in possession of drugs for personal use and offers a preventative pathway into appropriate support services.

"Drug-related harm can manifest itself in many different ways, impacting individuals, families and communities, as well as driving criminality. The IOMC continues to work with the Department of Home Affairs to consider how existing approaches can be further developed in line with the principles agreed by Tynwald on reducing the harm caused by illegal drugs.

"The Chief Constable is clear that decisions relating to the legal framework for controlled drugs, including any consideration of decriminalisation, are matters for Tynwald. He also recognises that there are complex and potentially significant impacts associated with any such changes, particularly in relation to public health, demand on support services, and the exploitation that often underpins drug-related criminality.

"The role of the IOMC remains to enforce the legislation set by Tynwald and to protect the public from harm. It is committed to tackling serious and organised criminality linked to drugs, which is reflected in around a third of the current prison population having links to such offending."

Jane Slater, the CEO of Transform Drug Policy foundation, was also a panellist at the event. 

She explains what drug regulations could look like:

Ramsey MHK, Dr Alex Allinson also attended the meeting in the crowd. 

He explains why the topic is so important as he brings it up in Tynwald today (19 May):

A survey was launched earlier this year by Public Health to better understand how medicinal cannabis and other substances are being used across the Isle of Man.

Research was conducted by Liverpool John Moores University and the survey concluded in March.

Isle of Man Government has been approached for comment.