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
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MAP posted-by: Beth