Pubdate: Wed, 09 Aug 2000
Source: Melbourne Times (Australia)
Copyright: 2000 Melborne Times
Contact:  PO Box 208, Carlton South, Victoria, 3053, Australia
Fax: +61 3 9663 2060
Author: Steve Drazetic

HEROIN: TIME TO SHOW TOLERANCE

DURING many years in the criminal justice system, I have witnessed the 
devastating effects of heroin addiction. I have seen addicts lose 
everything, including their freedom, and I have seen what heroin addiction 
does to families. It destroys lives.

In the past decade heroin has become cheaper to obtain and purer. More 
people are using it, more people are addicts.

"Zero tolerance" appears to have had little effect, except for filling 
prisons. Police are losing the war. It is time to try a different approach.

If safe injecting rooms are tested and they save only one life, we are 
better off.

If a trial results in the saving of more lives and has an impact on the 
level and types of crimes associated with heroin addicts, and if it saves 
taxpayers' money, then the question is why haven't we tried this sooner?

Having toured the Wesley Central Mission's proposed safe injecting room in 
Lonsdale Street, I am convinced it will be a useful and safe place for 
heroin users, as well as providing rehabilitation, medical services and 
other day-to-day necessities.

For anyone who doesn't understand the devastation caused by heroin, I 
suggest some time sitting in any magistrates' court or emergency section of 
a public hospital.

We should support and encourage victims of heroin addiction, rather than 
lack the courage to try something new.

Steve Drazetic Ascot Vale
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