Over the past few years there's been an increase in patients with substance abuse disorders in Fiji - PM

Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama says it has been reported that over the past few years there has been an increase in patients with substance abuse disorders in Fiji.

While opening Fiji's first Drug and Alcohol Unit at Saint Giles Hospital, Bainimarama says substance abuse whether excessive alcohol consumption or the rising use of hard drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine is a growing concern in Fiji.

The Prime Minister says that is why the Drug and Alcohol Unit is important.

Bainimarama says with help from international partners, we are taking bold action to better patrol our areas with a mission to stop the flow of illegal drugs.

He has encouraged Fijian parents to play their part in this critical fight and set a good example for children.

Bainimarama says from prevention to education to rehabilitation, we must continue to address substance use disorders and all psychiatric conditions from all sides and by doing so we can enter a new age of mental health care in Fiji.

The Prime Minister also says they have an aim to open similar addiction and rehabilitation centres in each of our regional hospitals.