Pubdate: Wed, 01 Dec 2004
Source: National Post (Canada)
Copyright: 2004 Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nationalpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/286
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n1653/a05.html
Author: Michel Perron
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COST

Re: CEOs Fear Reefer Madness, Nov. 22.

The statement attributed to David Stewart-Patterson, executive 
vice-president of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives, about the cost 
of substance abuse in the workplace seriously misrepresents the study that 
our organization published in 1996.

The statement claims that substance abuse in the workplace is costing the 
Canadian economy $18.4-billion a year. Our study, the Costs of Substance 
Abuse in Canada, used the figure of $18.45-billion to describe the impact 
of substance abuse on Canadian society as a whole, including the health 
care system, law enforcement and the courts. This figure includes alcohol 
(40.8%), tobacco (51.8%) and illicit drugs (7.4%).

Substance abuse is a serious health and social issue in Canada -- as it is 
around the world. We appreciate the focus that heads of agencies can bring 
to this issue and we welcome any opportunity that may arise to help 
reinforce this attention with accurate and objective information.

Michel Perron, chief executive officer, Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse, 
Ottawa.
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MAP posted-by: Jackl