Pubdate: Sun, 6 Jan 2008 Source: Province, The (CN BC) Copyright: 2008 The Province Contact: http://www.canada.com/theprovince/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476 Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n018/a06.html Author: Clint Morris PREVENTING DISEASE Critics of free crack-pipe mouthpieces have the wrong idea. B.C.'s Health Ministry is addressing a problem within the community of addicts, since the practice of drug use isn't going anywhere anytime soon. There are treatment programs available, but the addict has to willingly submit to them. And since prohibition fails to work, then at least we can prevent some disease and possibly connect addicts to resources that may lead to treatment. I do agree with David Berner, however, in that diabetics and the like should be entitled to free, clean needles as well. I say knock down the ridiculous Vancouver Convention Centre, halt its ludicrous construction costs and put the money into health care, where it is needed. Clint Morris, Vancouver - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake