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