Sniffing out dealers

SA deploying police dogs at schools to combat drug ‘scourge’

SNIFFER dogs are set to be deployed in South Australian schools to combat what the State Government says is the “scourge” of drugs.

Under new protocols agreed to by police and the education department, high school principals can invite sniffer dogs onto school grounds where a demonstrated need has been determined.

The protocol includes a process for identifying schools where there may be children vulnerable to illicit drug use.

It also allows private schools to opt in to the program.

Education Minister John Gardner said the government was taking action to stop the scourge of drugs in schools.

“We are taking strong action to protect our children from illicit substances which we know can interrupt learning, impair development and result in social, emotional, financial and health problems that continue into adulthood,” he said. “While the majority of South Australian students are not involved with these activities, we are very serious about deterring young people from having any involvement with illegal drugs.”

Police Minister Corey Wingard said the government had a zero-tolerance attitude towards illicit drugs.

“Illegal drugs have no place in our society and in particular no place anywhere near our vulnerable children,” he said.

“These new measures send a clear message to anybody who thinks they can bring drugs into our schools that they will be caught and they will face the consequences.” Police assistant commissioner Noel Bamford said the protocol would ensure the sniffer dog operations were conducted in the appropriate manner. That includes a provision for students to be assembled away from school buildings while the dogs work.

“The consequences of using drugs or being caught in possession of them can be serious and long-lasting,” he said.