National Federation Party President Pio Tikoduadua [left] and Defence Minister Inia Seruiratu

Parliament has defeated a motion by National Federation Party President to set up a Special Committee to combat the rising drug problem.

The motion was defeated by 27 votes to 20.

Pio Tikoduadua raised the motion saying the emergence of hard drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine and the use of marijuana must be addressed with urgency.

These pernicious chemicals have taken possession over them and all their faculties. However, it is poisoning and killing our people who we must hunt down in a concerted way and who must face the fullest brunt of the law.

However, Defence Minister Inia Seruiratu argued the government has the matter well in hand with new laws expected in Parliament soon.

“The battlefield is out there in the schools. The battlefield is out there in the communities not in Parliament Committees Mr. Speaker Sir. But when the legislation comes into this house then is where we wanted the support and the contribution from the parliament members.”

Seruiratu also confirmed that discussions are underway to set up a dedicated rehabilitation centre