Pubdate: Fri, 11 Apr 2003
Source: Halifax Herald (CN NS)
Copyright: 2003 The Halifax Herald Limited
Contact:  http://www.herald.ns.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/180
Author: Derek Toupin

PILL EPIDEMIC

The use of illegal and legal drugs is out of control in Nova Scotia. We in 
Canada are part of a pill epidemic driven by the prescription drug 
companies, with benzodiazepines leading the way to the tune of an estimated 
$21 million annually worldwide. Add to that one person in five using 
marijuana daily, along with a long list of sobriety-altering prescription 
and over-the-counter drugs.

Many of these people use drugs in place of alcohol because they know it is 
not easily detectable by police. Some sources estimate that one in three 
drivers are drug impaired. That means every third driver coming towards you 
may not have complete control of their vehicle.

We really need a law in place to tackle this huge drug problem in society; 
a 24-hour suspension is not adequate. Laws must be changed to permit a 
blood sample on demand or result in the driver being charged with refusal, 
just like alcohol. Small blood samples are painless and easy. The only 
reason I can see for not allowing this legislation would be the costs of 
supporting the system, dealing with the numerous charges that would result. 
Can we afford not to be aggressive with all impaired drivers in this age of 
rising insurance and aging populations?

A keynote speaker is coming to the Maritimes in mid-May. Joan Gadsby, 
co-producer of the Canadian-made movie The Pill Epidemic and author of 
Addiction by Prescription, will be speaking in P.E.I. Call Addiction 
Services P.E.I. for details.

Derek Toupin, Chignecto
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MAP posted-by: Tom