Pubdate: Fri, 03 Sep 2004
Source: National Post (Canada)
Copyright: 2004 Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nationalpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/286
Author: Rev. Larry Gregan
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n1245/a04.html
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?143 (Hepatitis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

IN DEFENCE OF CRACK KITS

Re: 'Safe' Crack Kits Promote Drug Use, Stuart Murray, Sept. 2.

Manitoba's Progressive Conservative leader is to be commended for not 
letting the reduction in funding to the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba 
pass unnoticed. It is a bizarre decision to say the least -- like reducing 
vaccinations amidst an epidemic, or cutting the army at a time of war.

But how exactly does the targeted distribution of crack kits promote drug 
use? Mr. Murray states this as a given, but does not say how it would 
happen in the case of this particular program.

It's true that crack addicts can be "volatile, aggressive individuals who 
commit crimes to feed their addiction ... not rational people looking to do 
their fellow addicts or the general public any favours." But that's not to 
say that they never engage in rational activities or treat others kindly.

If they were beyond being able to exercise their will, treatment would be 
useless. But just as their will can be mobilized in recovery, it can also 
be mobilized at earlier stages to prevent fatal disease so that they will 
still be alive to recover.

Rev. Larry Gregan, associate pastor, New Life Ministries, Winnipeg.
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