IQALUIT - The RCMP and the Department of Health and Social Services have joined forces in attempt to reach out to those frequently in cells in Iqaluit for being intoxicated to offer them easier access to counselling.

"In the past, we sobered them up and released them and they came back sometimes hours later, days later so it's a big circle," said RCMP Staff Sgt. Roger Tournier.

Since the end of March, before the police release what they call a "habitual intoxicated person," someone who has a problem with alcohol or drugs, they are given the chance to talk to a counsellor from HSS.

In March, six referrals were made and, in April, 17 people accepted

the assistance offered.

If someone is released from cells between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. the social worker is available immediately. Outside those hours, it is left to the individual to contact the social worker.

The pilot project is being done in Iqaluit, Tournier said because it has the highest number of prisoners.

For community social service worker Nancy Pellerin, this program is helping her and her staff more easily identify those who need their help.

"I don't think these people would come to our attention otherwise," she said, adding "they need to know that we're here to help."

She said people are putting their lives in danger by not knowing when to stop consuming alcohol and drugs.

In some cases she said people are in Iqaluit from other communities and are not used to drinking alcohol and that is why they are in cells or in other cases they have gotten into drunken arguments with other individuals. Either way, she said, they are putting their lives in danger.

Men, women and youth have all walked through her office door thanks to this program.

While the project is in its infancy, one person has already asked to get registered in a dry-out centre in the south.

At a city council meeting on April 26, city councillors welcomed the project.

"I'm really glad to hear about this and I think it's about time the community works together," said councillor Mary Ekho Wilman.

Tournier said both parties will see how the project advances and will monitor the numbers.

For Pellerin, she said if they can prove it is working and there are positive outcomes, perhaps the department can devote a staff person to these referrals.

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