Death of Olivia, 11, sparks calls for urgent action to tackle drug crisis

THE Scottish Government is facing increased calls for immediate action following the tragic death of an 11-year-old girl believed to be the nation's youngest-ever drugs victim.

- BY RICHARD ELIAS

Olivia Curley died in hospital three days after being taken ill at home.

Although the schoolgirl's cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed, police are probing whether it was ecstasy-related.

Scotland has the unenviable record of having the most drug-related deaths anywhere in Western Europe.

And despite repeated promises to tackle the issue, the SNP-led Scottish Government has failed to make any significant impact on those figures.

HEARTBREAKING

But the death of Olivia, who was from Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire, has shocked even those familiar with the horrific damage caused by narcotics in Scotland.

It has led to demands across the political spectrum for immediate and incisive action to tackle the issue.

Among those calling for such measures is the Scottish Conservative MSP for West Scotland who said it was clear that existing drugs policies were not working.

Pam Gosal went on: "This is utterly heartbreaking news. My thoughts are with this young girl's family and friends at this awful time.

"More must be done to educate children about the dangers drugs pose and to ensure that illicit substances never end up in their hands."

Her words were echoed by Dame Jackie Baillie who is the local MSP for Dumbarton and whose constituency includes Helensburgh. She is also Scottish Labour's health spokesman and yesterday demanded action to prevent any repeat of the tragedy.