Policy is a "witch-hunt'' designed to catch known drug users.

Smith, speaking at the official launch of the initiative yesterday, took the opportunity to refute criticisms of the scheme.

"What we have done is create acceptable guidelines in the sports arena,'' he said.

"It is an effort to deter those who might engage in drug use in sport. It is a programme that protects those athletes who commit themselves to drug free sport and creates a level playing field for all athletes to compete on.'' "The policy reinforces the essence of sport and its intrinsic values of fair play, skill development, social and physical development, teamwork, respect for one's self, one's team-mates, the rules of play and officials.'' While April 1 was the official kick-off of the programme, in practice the testing of all athletes representing Bermuda overseas has been in effect for several months. However, yesterday was the day testing of "targetted'' individuals did begin.

Random testing of ten percent of all Island athletes will not begin for at least another month.

"It is not a scheme to identify and penalise drug users, nor a programme aimed at any particular sport, or aimed at reducing participation in certain sports,'' Smith stressed.

"And it is certainly not a programme that violates fundamental human rights.'' The names of persons tested will be kept confidential and they will be offered free counselling.

The initiative was set in motion following the Miami Seven Affair four years ago by then Sports Minister Pamela Gordon.

It was drawn up by the Council for Drug Free Sport, a committee formed from representatives of Island sports organisations, and is financed by the National Drugs Commission to the tune of more than $100,000. It was ratified by all national sports governing bodies in November.

DRUG TESTING Announced testing: to take place at selected competitions and usually known in advance Targetted testing: Acting on requests from national bodies and the sports community, selected individuals will be tested "with just cause.'' Random testing: Ten percent of the Island's sports population, drawn at random from a computer database, will be subject to year-round testing. To be launched this summer.

Failing a test, refusing to take one or possessing or supplying any of five illicit drugs will invoke the following penalties: First offence: One year ban from all sports Second offence: Three year ban Third offence: Lifetime ban Athletes or officials can apply for reinstatement following successful completion of rehabilitation.