schools and Bermuda College.

Other places where youngsters gather will be protected from drug dealers with a 100-metre protection zone.

And the new zones are to be backed with stiffer penalties for anyone caught pushing drugs in these areas -- up to an extra five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Act 1997 is jointly sponsored by Minister of Education and Deputy Premier Jerome Dill and Home Affairs Minister Quinton Edness and was tabled in the House of Assembly on Friday.

Mr. Dill said: "Both Mr. Edness and I feel that the safety of our children is of such importance that this additional measure is completely justified.

"We hope our colleagues in the legislature will agree with us and help us make this bill law in Bermuda.'' The 300-metre special zones will surround schools, playgrounds, approved society premises and Bermuda College.

A 100-metre zone will be thrown around public beaches, gardens and parks, as well as Government campsites used by the young.

Also covered are public swimming pools, video games facilities, youth centres and Hamilton bus terminal. Drug treatment centres, the King Edward and St.

Brendan's hospitals and the prisons will be protected by a 100-metre no-go zone.