Commission it was revealed yesterday.

Dr. Binns -- who recently resigned after a decade in the Prison Service -- will become the NDC's research officer from August 15.

He said the biggest project he will undertake is the establishment of a database on local substance abuse and treatment.

Dr. Binns added: "From the database, we will in due course be able to understand more about usage and trends from which the NDC can develop programmes and policies.'' NDC chief executive officer Eugenie Simmons said Dr. Binns' appointment was an important step forward in the fulfillment of the Commission's mandate.

She added: "We are pleased to have reached the stage when we are able to commence our research capabilities.

"The campaign against substance abuse in Bermuda now moves forward another step towards our stated goals.'' Dr. Derek Binns