The tragedy of Scotland’s drugs deaths is the biggest black mark on Nicola Sturgeon’s record as First Minister.
In 2019, 1264 people lost their lives to drugs – the worst rate of any country in Europe.
Scotland likes to think of itself as a progressive beacon, but our performance in this area is a badge of shame.
The Daily Record has been at the forefront of calls for radical change, but too often our politicians have failed to match words with deeds.
The First Minister herself has acknowledged her Government’s failing on this life-or-death issue.
A report has now claimed the next round of drug deaths could be even higher than the last set of figures.
If true, this would be a horrible sign we are going backwards.
We are now at a stage where the Scottish Parliament must consider every option available within the devolved settlement.
The useless Tory Government will not be a help in this regard.
They do not support reform of our outdated drugs law and oppose safe consumption rooms.
The Scottish Government must look at whether the Crown Office can effectively implement both these policies through a creative use of their powers.
We also need less of a reliance on taskforces and more of a focus on ensuring the £250million allocated to this scandal is spent properly.
Some of our most vulnerable citizens are being let down at their lowest point.
Politicians need to step up to the mark – and fast.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
