Pubdate: Sun, 19 Feb 2006
Source: Langley Times (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 BC Newspaper Group and New Media Development
Contact:  http://www.langleytimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1230
Author: Natasha Jones
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?228 (Paraphernalia)

PARAPHERNALIA COMPLAINT HEARD

Parents in Langley, fed up with convenience stores that sell 
paraphernalia to make illicit drugs, are turning to politicians in 
the Township and City of Langley which issue licences to the businesses.

Cyanna Mufford, president of the Parent Advisory Council at 
Willoughby Elementary, appeared before the Langley school board on 
Tuesday night, appealing to trustees to write to the two local councils.

Mufford said that the councils need to do their part through bylaws 
and enforcement.

What is occurring at some neighbourhood stores contradicts the 
positive programs on drug awareness carried out by the school 
district, she said.

"What are we telling our children if it is alright to sell the 
paraphernalia at the local corner store?" she asked.

"We need to be active partners in protecting our children and promote 
positive community involvement in social community issues," Mufford 
told trustees.

"This isn't just a Willoughby problem. It is happening all over our 
community," she added.

The parent body and professionals need to develop a strategy to 
enhance the community as a whole, for the protection of children, she said.

Last month, when Mufford made the same appeal to Township council, 
she called the display of drug-making equipment "a blatant display of 
disrespect."

Council responded by asking staff to investigate how a bylaw, 
governing display or a total ban, could be implemented.

On Wednesday, chief bylaw enforcement officer Bill Storie said that 
the Township is waiting to see what the City of Surrey does with its 
proposed bylaw which is on the agenda for Surrey's Feb. 20 meeting. 
If passed, stores would be prohibited from selling the equipment.

Surrey's legislation currently relates only to its display.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman