That was the verdict following a major drugs conference in Jamaica this month.

Among those represented were Bermuda, Caribbean islands, Canada, and the United States.

Countries exchanged ideas in tackling drugs abuse during the big get-together in Kingston.

And it was felt the key lay with encouraging all parts of a community to channel their efforts.

Yesterday Bermuda's delegates to the conference said the Island's newly formed National Drugs Commission (NDC) was seen as a way forward.

Delegate Ms Eugenie Simmons said: "Bermuda is positioned to become one of the emerging leaders in the area of demand reduction given the soundness of its Drug Strategy, the technical proficiency of its community development approach and the potential availability of financial resources.'' The fifth international conference on drug abuse in Jamaica was held between October 5 and 7. Its theme was "Community Action -- Key to Drug Abuse Prevention''.

More than 40 overseas delegates were present, as well as several representatives from Jamaican agencies.

Mr. Michael Stowe, executive officer of the NDC, attended with Ms Simmons.

Said Mr. Stowe: "The trip definitely confirmed we are on the right track. Our model of coping with drug abuse was validated.'' It underlined the importance of involving a broad spectrum of agencies and groups, he added.

Mr. Stowe said Bermuda was now set to forge links with an international anti-drugs agency. The NDC was likely to apply for membership in the International Council on Addictions and Alcohol in Switzerland.

Ms Simmons said "community development'' was seen as crucial to reducing the demand for drugs. And the idea -- taken up boldly by Jamaica -- had captured the attention of the European Community.

"Bermuda's model is very similar to the Jamaican model,'' she said.

Ms Simmons said it had also been highlighted that substance abuse was symptomatic of other underlying social issues.

The conference emphasised the need for the NDC to revitalise community groups.

Mr. Alastair Macdonald, chairman of the interim steering committee of the NDC, also voiced confidence.

"The good news is we are going in the right direction,'' he said.