S.L. 595.50 Art. 4Functions of the Unit.

(1) The Unit shall:

(a) identify and formulate yearly national reports on the drug situation and the responses to same on issues related to the prevalence, prevention, treatment, recovery and enforcement matters related to drugs and addictions;

(b) collate, verify, analyse and publish statistics and data related to drugs and addictions which, give inter alia, indications related to the national scenario; (ESTABLISHMENT AS A SPECIALISED UNIT)

(c) conduct surveys, studies and submit reports on the ongoing situation in relation to drugs and addictions;

(d) facilitate and monitor the necessary coordination and participation between government departments, agencies and other concerned entities in the collection and collation of data related to drugs and addictions;

(e) act as the national focal point for local and international collaboration on prevention, treatment, recovery, enforcement and epidemiological issues related to drugs and addictions;

(f) organize, coordinate and maintain research networks in relation to the situation in Malta and participate in related networks and other activities organized by international entities; and

(g) perform such other functions in the field of drugs and addictions as the Minister may direct.

(2) In the performance of its functions the Unit shall ensure scientific independence and shall maintain the quality of data collected in accordance with European Union standards.