The Health Minister says they are concerned with the use of needles and syringes for the use of illicit drugs in the country.

Heath Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu while speaking to the media said while they note the concern there are pros and cons they also need to reconsider.

Needles and syringes are readily available in our local pharmacies and while this is a main tool used in the growing consumption of illicit drugs in the country, the Health Minister said this issue has been brought to their attention.

The growing concern of youths participating in activities such as Bluetoothing for IV drug users and Chem-Sex amongst the young has also brought about concerns in the rise in cases of HIV.

The Minister is said he is also advocating on this issue as 415 cases of HIV were reported in Fiji last year.

And while the Ministry advocates on the two rising concerns that especially for our youths he said they also have to reconsider pros and cons of the readily available syringes.

Dr Atonio adds the issue will involve a consultative approach.