Pubdate: Tue, 05 Jul 2005 Source: Chilliwack Progress (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 The Chilliwack Progress Contact: http://www.theprogress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/562 Author: Freeman A. Dryden Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?137 (Needle Exchange) LOCAL CONCERN OVER LOCATION OF NEEDLE EXCHANGE NOTHING NEW The article Needle exchange seeks a new home," in the June 28 edition of the Chilliwack Progress, was well written. However, I would like to clarify some points for your readers. It is quite true that the staff of the needle exchange service has been forced to undergo hasty relocations for the clinic in the last year. The article says they are facing relocation after a decade of peaceful and successful existence within or near the downtown core. The fact is, the complaints have been going on for years from businesses on Ontario Street, Alexander Street and Princess Avenue. There have been more than a few complaints about the Connection's recent location on Spadina and Main Street. Hundreds of signatures opposing this location have been submitted. In addition, 10 businesses located in close proximity to the clinic have made urgent representations at the local and provincial level, as well as the Fraser Health Authority. These businesses are being financially damaged by the activities of some of the clients served by the clinic. One business has succumbed to that damage already and others are at risk. It is stated that various agencies were trying to calm anxious residents by providing better and more detailed information. However, that does not address the fact that residents and businesses were kept totally in the dark right up to the opening day for the needle exchange clinic. The firestorm that followed should have been predicted. Someone did not do his homework. The staff of this clinic has an already difficult task, and provides a valuable service to clients. However, we now have addicts coming here from Abbotsford and Mission where these services do not presently exist. Having said that, it should have been predicted there would be a fallout from the present Spadina and Main location as more people will be availing themselves of the service. We hope when a more appropriate location for the clinic is found, the officials responsible will look at the broader picture and take into consideration any potential for disruption to the community. Freeman A. Dryden - --- MAP posted-by: Beth