NCDA Opens Northeast Regional Office in St. Ann

State Minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, says the establishment of the National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA) Northeast Regional Office signals the Government’s commitment to strengthening public health and wellness across Jamaica.

She was addressing the official opening of the facility in Drax Hall, St. Ann on Friday (Jan. 16).

“This launch represents far more than the opening of a physical location. It stands as a firm commitment that we’re serious about safeguarding public health, wellness, and public security,” she said.

Ms. Lee noted that the new office comes at a time when the country is facing increasing challenges related to substance misuse, particularly with the rise of new and often hidden psychoactive substances.

She noted that drugs are now being marketed in more sophisticated ways and are sometimes disguised, making them harder to detect.

She pointed to substances such as ecstasy, commonly called Molly, mushrooms and other new psychoactive drugs, alongside traditional substances like alcohol, tobacco and marijuana.

The State Minister said the opening of the office in St. Ann is significant as the parish is among the top three for substance misuse.

She said the facility forms part of a wider public health strategy to expand access to prevention programmes and reach the most vulnerable.

She noted that communities must be empowered with reliable information, families equipped to recognise early warning signs, and young people provided with healthier alternatives and supportive environments.

Executive Director of the NCDA, Paulette Smith, in her remarks, said the opening represents a milestone in expanding access to substance abuse and mental health services to build a healthier, safer, drug-free Jamaica.

She noted that the data shows that alcohol and tobacco use in St. Ann is higher than the national average, making the regional hub critical.

“This regional hub is designed to strengthen the capacity to deliver… prevention programmes, case management services, counselling, therapy services… to this region,” Mrs. Smith outlined.

“We are now going to be better equipped to respond to the unique needs of the communities across St. Ann and the Northeast region,” she underscored.

“May this office serve as a beacon of support… and a transformation for generations to come,” she said.