Critical mass: the who, how and why of informing the public about crystal methamphetamine in Prince George

In 2000, crystal methamphetamine made an appearance in the Prince George hospital detox unit and drug busts however, the first public warning via a provincially sponsored information forum did not occur until early 2006. This retrospective case study uses documentary evidence and interviews, to examine the who, how, and why of the information about crystal methamphetamine that is provided to the public in Prince George. A timeline of media accounts reveals an increase in language designed to stimulate public concern about crystal methamphetamine and increase public trust for the provincial government. Horizontal disconnection between community agencies in terms of role recognition (internal recognition of an agency mandate) and role perception (external perception of agency mandate) seems to increase difficulties in strategic planning and formulation of a shared vision for the community. --Leaf i.