Pubdate: Mon, 24 Jul 2000 Source: West Australian (Australia) Copyright: 2000 West Australian Newspapers Limited Contact: +61 8 94823830 Website: http://thewest.com.au/redirect.shtml Author: B. McConnell Note: B. McConnell is the president of Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform WHY OPPOSE THESE DRUG TRIALS, PREMIER? There are many people in WA who deserve praise for open minds in the search for solutions to the use of drugs. These include Dr Carnley, the ALP, the National Party, the Democrats, the Greens, the AMA and recently the WA police (report, 18/7). They see the problem clearly. They also see the inadequate attempts to solve the problem. However, Premier Court's point-blank opposition to trials of heroin prescription or supervised injecting rooms is another matter. The evidence from Europe, where successful trials of both measures have been undertaken, demonstates their life-saving capabilities. Other outcomes of these measures have also been positive and many of the fears before their introduction did not eventuate. Other positive measures included a reduction in crime; a reduction in hospital costs, a reduction in homelessness, a reduction in public nuisance and increased employment and improved social circumstances for people concerned. Faced with, this evidence, Premier Court has to be asked why he chooses not to have a trial of a measure that will not only save lives but also provide significant benefits to the community. B. McConnell, Higgins, ACT. - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager