Pubdate: Thu, 30 Jun 2005
Source: North Island Gazette (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 North Island Gazette
Contact:  http://www.northislandgazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2783
Author: Rev. Howard Jacques
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

SUPERVISED SITES ARE BETTER FOR ADDICTS

Dear editor:

I found Mr. Fletcher's article concerning Shoot-up sites not helping 
addicts" made good points why the present system of illicit drug 
control is not working.

I believe he makes a good argument why legalization of certain 
illegal drugs should be considered. Anyone who deals with addictions 
knows how difficult it is for those who are addicted to break the 
habit. In the long run the success rate of treatment centres is not high.

I believe that these sites are not to try and get those afflicted 
with addictions off their addiction but to provide a safer 
environment, which is supervised.

These sites are a much better place than on some side street where 
these addicts become vulnerable to a more dangerous and potentially 
fatal environment.

The millions if not billions of public dollars that are spent on 
enforcing the present laws on drug control in my opinion are a waste 
of taxpayers' money.

Despite the increased expenditures the problem, as Mr. Fletcher says, 
is not better but worse.

If other attempts were made to change the situation, for example 
legalizing these drugs, the criminal element would be greatly reduced 
if not eliminated. There would be more controls over the dispensation of drugs.

Addictions may not be eliminated but at least better controlled and 
those addicted would be in safer environments and lead a more dignified life.

The public money that is presently being spent to no avail could be 
used for treatment programs that could possibly reduce the number of 
addictions and police time could be spent in other much-needed areas.

I believe this is what the European program is trying to accomplish.

I personally believe that these "shoot-up sites" are a good thing and 
we need more of them but this is just a beginning of taking control 
of a present chaotic system.

Rev. Howard Jacques

Port McNeill
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