Pubdate: Fri, 29 Nov 2002
Source: Maple Ridge News (CN BC)
Copyright: 2002 Maple Ridge News
Contact:  http://www.mapleridgenews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1328
Author: Jason Marrs
Note: 1 of 2 PUB LTEs
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n2138/a04.html
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?142 (Safe Injecting Rooms)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/walters.htm (Walters, John)

U.S. A BAD DRUG MODEL

Editor, The News:

Re: Drug dangers (News Views, Nov. 23).

Tom Fletcher refers to safe consumption sites and maintenance programs as 
enabling addicts. He even goes so far as to side with US drug czar John 
Walters. Obviously, Mr. Fletcher, like Mr. Walters, is out of touch with 
reality.

The programs in Western Europe, specifically those in Germany and 
Switzerland are currently very successful at getting addicts back on their 
feet and contributing to society, while at the same time reducing the 
spread of diseases such as Hepatitis and AIDS. American policies have lead 
to very high rates AIDS and hepatitis. They have done nothing to 
rehabilitate. In fact, 2 out of 3 of our imprisoned addicts who are 
released return to prison. This cannot be considered a success.

Jason Marrs, Ossining, New York, USA
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D