Pubdate: Sun, 18 Feb 2007
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2007 The Province
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/theprovince/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: Derek Williams

EDUCATION, NOT PROHIBITION

Harm reduction is the method we use to limit harm in just about 
everything humans do, from seatbelts in cars to childproof locks on 
jars containing dangerous chemicals.

It's only with some drugs that we try using prohibition. And, in 
doing so, we work hard to prevent the most basic of harm-reduction measures.

Illegal drugs aren't controlled drugs. There's no control over the 
market, no regulation of doses or purity or regulation of sellers.

Prohibition is harm-maximization writ large, all in a futile attempt 
to prevent drug use.

We should help the people who want to stop, and educate and advise 
people not to start.

But if they do start taking drugs, we should at least provide them 
with the essential protection only a legal and regulated supply-side 
can offer. If people want to take drugs, it's their choice, but we 
shouldn't be making their situation worse.

Derek Williams, Norwich, U.K.
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