Drug tests for health staff

Mt Maunganui-based Ngaiterangi iwi has adopted a random drug testing policy for its public health employees to show they are "beyond question".

The iwi was now urging other groups working in the drug and alcohol education field to follow suit, said runanga manager Paul Stanley.

"It's one way of showing there are no junkies on patrol." He said staff initiated the idea themselves.

First tests were taken last week by an outside agency and the results had arrived back, Mr Stanley revealed.

He would not discuss the outcome due to strict confidentiality but said he was "happy with the results".

Ngaiterangi was extremely proud of its five-strong public health team because they had "raised the bar of accountability", he said.

Mr Stanley, who asked to be randomly tested with his staff, said it was vital to "walk the talk".

The tests, for five drugs including methamphetamine and cannabis, were non-intrusive. Any staff who failed would pay the $60 test cost and be stood down from drug education duties for at least a month.

Failing a second test within two years would mean losing their job.

Mr Stanley said the team worked increasingly "around issues" with methamphetamine or P.

"Our role in the community is one of leadership and we are keen to show we practise what we preach," he said.