The inquiry into the illegal drug, more commonly known as ice, will report on the nature, prevalence and affect of ice in NSW.

Examinations will also be undertaken into the adequacy of existing measures to tackle ice and the ways the response to ice can be strengthened, such as through law enforcement or rehabilitation.

ALSO MAKING NEWS:

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said ice was a destructive drug that was ruining too many lives across NSW, especially in the regional centres.

“We are establishing a powerful Special Commission of Inquiry because we want every option on the table to bolster our existing efforts to combat the evolving threat of this dangerous, illegal drug – and to get help for those who need it,” she said.

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said the more that could be done to prevent and disrupt the manufacture and dealing of ice, the less crime police would have to respond to right across the board.

“This drug is destroying families and killing people across NSW and my officers are on the front line every day dealing with the damage and violence it causes,” he said.

NSW Shadow Health Minister Walt Secord said while NSW Labor supported the inquiry, a wider drug summit was needed.

“Ice is the new scourge – particularly in rural and regional areas,” he said.

“NSW Labor has already committed to six additional rehabilitation facilities – including four in regional areas – with a total of 150 additional beds – costing $100 million.”

Subject to the Governor’s approval, Professor Daniel Howard will lead the Special Commission of Inquiry.

Professor Howard will consult communities and other stakeholders in developing terms of reference for the Special Commission of Inquiry for the Government’s consideration. The Special Commission of Inquiry is expected to draw upon expert advice from drug policy, law enforcement, education and health experts.

The Special Commission of Inquiry into ice is expected to report in 2019.