Pubdate: Fri, 13 Jul 2007
Source: Ottawa Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2007 Canoe Limited Partnership
Contact:  http://www.ottawasun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/329
Author: Jean-Francois Martinbault
Note: Title by MAP

SHAME ON THE COUNCILLORS

Re: "off the crack pipes" (July 12). I am disappointed by council's 
decision to cancel the crack pipe program.

It is a decision steeped in ignorance and prejudice. I do not 
understand how council can ignore the advice of the medical officer 
and the recommendation of the committee mandated to advise council on 
the issue. The crack pipe program is an excellent activity that draws 
hard-to-reach clients toward community services and reduces the harm 
associated with drug use. It has been proven repeatedly that harm 
reduction paraphernalia does not cause drug use to rise.

Shame on the councillors who voted in favour of the cancellation. 
They chose to ignore the advice of experts to further their own 
misguided political agenda.

Jean-Francois Martinbault

Addictions and Problem Gambling Services of Ottawa

(Those who took advantage of the program will likely find it hard to adjust)
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom