Pubdate: Thu, 21 Jul 2016
Source: Vancouver Sun (CN BC)
Copyright: 2016 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/477
Author: Bronwyn Specht
Page: A11

LAWS NEED TO CHANGE TO STOP OVERDOSES

Will the number of overdose deaths this year climb to 800 as predicted
by Dr. Perry Kendall? According to the B.C. Coroners Service, overdose
deaths in the province this year had reached 315 as of May 31. By June
30, that number had risen to 371. Sadly, it appears Dr. Kendall's
predictions are on track to reach that unbelievable number of 800.

Our drug laws are an integral part of this problem. Prohibition
creates a market for illegal, adulterated drugs, easily accessible to
those who seek them, whether to support an addiction, or for
recreational purposes. No person who uses illegal drugs today is
guaranteed a clean, safe product. Using street drugs today is a crap
shoot.

This lethal game could be mitigated with a change to our drug laws.
The time has come to make all drugs legal, thereby controlling
content, as well as access. Without a change to our laws, we will
continue to see an increase in overdose deaths.

Bronwyn Specht, Port Moody
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MAP posted-by: Matt