Pubdate: Wed, 02 Jun 2004 Source: Campbell River Mirror (CN BC) Copyright: 2004 Campbell River Mirror Contact: http://www.campbellrivermirror.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1380 Author: Lorne Scott Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?137 (Needle Exchange) NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM FLAWED Needles, needles what a find! So as concerned citizens you are upset over finding needles (syringes) around where kids could stumble on them. Well it is not something new to any community that has a "needle exchange" outlet that is not from a pharmacy. You should rewrite your letters and get others to sign them and send them to all the MLAs that are in Victoria. The more complaints that they receive about this ongoing problem, the better chance of getting the "needle exchange" program overhauled. Writing to the local papers only reaches those who have a community conscience. Those that throw the needles anywhere they please are only concerned when it directly concerns them (when they are told) or they feel that there is something to be gained. You will not be able to reach them in any other way but if enough pressure can be brought to bear then there is a good possibility that the government will enforce the policy of "no needle, no exchange" in spite of the so-called dangers that could arise from proper enforcement. Lorne Scott Campbell River - --- MAP posted-by: Josh