I regularly read Jose Rodriguez's articles and generally agree. However, I was disappointed with "High absurdity," (Sept. 19.) Is he aware European countries with similar drug policies to B.C. boast much better results with addicts than in Canada or the U.S.? The $3 million to $4 million the government is spending to set up this new program is small in comparison to health costs associated with the addict population. When clean needles are provided to addicts, it helps keep innocents away from stray needles on the street. I am sure people living in East Vancouver applaud the measures. Drug use has gone up since the "war on drugs" was announced by Reagan. Why does Rodriguez think it will work 20 years later? Some estimates suggest drugs are responsible for 60-70% of B&Es, home invasions and violent assaults. An addict doesn't do these things when he or she is high. They do these things in search of money or goods to allow them to get high again.

Kevin Lawlor

(Injection sites won't stop crime.)

[end]