A modernised system of justice which treats drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal offence is being introduced in Trinidad and Tobago.

This, from Minister of Justice Devesh Maharaj, during Tuesday’s presentation of the toolkit and initial launch of the Dissuasion Commissions in Trinidad and Tobago, which divert first-time offenders involved in minor drug-related offences away from the criminal justice system and toward health-based treatment and support programmes.

Minister Maharaj said the needs of the victim, the offender and the community will be taken into account via a process which aims to preserve the safety of all.