Pubdate: Mon, 16 Dec 2002 Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC) Copyright: 2002 Times Colonist Contact: http://www.canada.com/victoria/timescolonist/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481 Author: J. McRee (Mac) Elrod DRUG WAR HAS COLLATERAL DAMAGE Re: "Weaker pot low chokes B.C. Minister," Dec. 12. The article quotes Solicitor General Rich Coleman as saying "I want to go out and fight the war on drugs because it's hurting our kids ..." He is absolutely correct. The war on drugs is hurting our kids, by artificially creating a lucrative market for drugs which motivates pushers to entice our children and grandchildren into drugs. My granddaughters can purchase either pot or crack more easily than nicotine or alcohol. We need to not only fight against, but end, the war on drugs before it does more damage to our kids -- as well as to our elders because of the home invasions to get the money for an expensive fix. In European countries practising harm-reduction methods, the average age of addicts is rising. In North America, where the war on drugs is being waged, the average age of addicts is dropping rapidly. Yes, the war on drugs if very much "hurting our kids." J. McRee (Mac) Elrod, Metchosin. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom