Pubdate: Thu, 15 Mar 2012
Source: Abbotsford Times (CN BC)
Copyright: 2012 The Abbotsford Times
Contact:  http://www.abbotsfordtimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1009
Author: Frank C. Wirrell

MORE LIKE 'HARM ACCELERATION'

Editor, the Times:

I have noted the reports in the local papers concerning the possible 
review of the current bylaw banning so-called "harm reduction" 
facilities in the City of Abbotsford.

Firstly, I wish to make it abundantly clear that I believe resources 
must be available to those genuinely seeking to break their addiction 
and all efforts should be directed accordingly.

However, the term "harm reduction" used by those seeking to amend the 
bylaw is nothing less than fraudulent.

Seeking a facility where addicts can inject themselves is nothing 
less than "harm acceleration".

It simply promotes and encourages addiction.

There may well be reasons for providing clean needle exchanges but 
under no circumstances should this include what is called a, "safe 
injection" site.

Those involved in drugs clearly know their actions are totally 
illegal, and are undoubtedly aware their actions provide a definite 
negative impact and example for their children and families.

Further, they willingly chose to become involved in drugs, and 
providing what should be properly called "harm acceleration" 
facilities is definitely not in the interests of the general public.

It is well known that those involved in drugs are responsible for a 
large portion of property crime and their suppliers are connected 
with organized crime.

The mayor may well be correct in stating, "I have yet to meet an 
addict, using or clean, who enjoys being an addict."

One might ask if he has met an addict who is genuinely interested in 
breaking the habit. This is specifically the reason for my stating 
that all resources should be directed at having addicts break their habit.

Providing facilities that simply encourages them to continue in their 
destructive pattern does nothing for the individual addict or society.

For too long we have been taken in by deceptive wording in various 
areas and this is one such area.

Those wishing to promote so-called harm reduction or safe injection 
sites are definitely using this tactic.

As stated, providing such facilities is simply "harm acceleration" 
and is decidedly negative for our city.

Those involved in drugs made a personal choice to become involved 
fully knowing this is both negative to their health and illegal. As 
taxpayers we do not need to assist them in continuing with said addictions.

Frank C. Wirrell

Abbotsford
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