Pubdate: Mon, 26 Mar 2001
Source: Sydney Morning Herald (Australia)
Copyright: 2001 The Sydney Morning Herald
Contact:  GPO Box 3771, Sydney NSW 2001
Fax: 61-(0)2-9282 3492
Website: http://www.smh.com.au/
Forum: http://forums.fairfax.com.au/
Author: Paul Clark

INJECTING ROOM CAN'T MAKE CROSS WORSE

It is time the Kings Cross Chamber of Commerce stopped its delaying tactics 
for the injecting room. As a local resident, I no longer want to find used 
syringes next to my building. I no longer want to see users shooting up in 
broad daylight.

It is argued that opening the safe injecting facility will attract dealers 
to the area. Whoever suggested this has not walked down Darlinghurst Road 
with their eyes open for a while.

Sure, opening the safe injecting room won't stop the dealers approaching me 
as I walk home from the bus stop, but I don't believe it will make the 
situation worse.

It is interesting that a group claiming to represent locals does not 
reflect the attitudes of my friends or neighbours who are confronted with 
this disturbing sight every day.

The current policies and attitudes have done nothing to alleviate this 
situation.

Give the trial a fair go. If it works, it will be wonderful for both 
residents and businesses. If it doesn't, we can always revert to the 
appalling situation as it currently stands.

Paul Clark, Elizabeth Bay, March 23.
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart