Pubdate: Tue, 05 Jul 2005
Source: Peace Arch News (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Peace Arch News
Contact:  http://www.peacearchnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1333
Author: Christine Eden

SAFE INJECTION SITES

Authorities Require More Power, Control

Editor;

Re: Safe injection sites poked (Peace Arch News, June 22)

I worked extensively in the addictions field. I have seen it all, 
from the downtown east side to Whalley. I still do not have the answers.

I recently returned from a trip to Europe to research a military 
reunion. I was the guest of the mayor of Faulquemont. I was in more 
bars than in the previous 10 years. Used their public transit system. 
What was apparent was the lack of drunks, addicts, panhandlers and 
homeless. I took my questions to the mayor. I wanted to know where they were.

His answer astounded me.

This city has bylaws. Public displays of drunkenness or addiction are 
frowned upon and the fine is heavy, the prison sentence is stiff (you 
get 12 months, you serve 12 months). Repeat offences require 
mandatory treatment.

Their parks are relatively safe, their modes of travel make ours look 
like a jungle. The city has authority to enforce this and they 
support their police.

The drug dogs and police in full battle gear are there to provide a 
message: Not in our city." And it works.

At the same time, the police were friendly and helpful and after the 
initial shock of seeing them, I felt comfortable and safe.

We need to carry the message to our politicians that laws need to be 
changed to give cities the rights they need and the support our police deserve.

Christine Eden

Surrey
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MAP posted-by: Beth