Pubdate: Wed, 21 Sep 2005
Source: North Shore News (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 North Shore News
Contact:  http://www.nsnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/311
Author: Pam Goldsmith-Jones, District of West Vancouver councillor, 
Maureen McKeon Holmes, District of North Vancouver councillor

MOTHER OF ADDICT'S STORY ILLUSTRATES NORTH SHORE'S NEEDS

Dear Editor:

Thank you for Niki Hope's story, Addict's Mom Searches for Help 
(North Shore News, Sept. 18), and especially to Linda Jordan, mother 
and voice of experience, for stating in plain terms what is needed on 
the North Shore:

- -timely access to addictions services;

- -co-ordination throughout the health region so that access to 
services is equal for all;

- -a professional response that puts those in need first;

- -political will to take action on the serious issue of substance abuse.

Treatment is one aspect of the four-pillar approach. Vancouver 
Coastal Health is listening and responding with health-care dollars. 
There are barriers to overcome in terms of effective delivery of 
addictions services, and Jordan's voice is an important call to 
action, and a plea to politicians and service providers to get on the 
same page.

Enforcement is another of the four pillars. Members of District of 
West Vancouver council will meet with Attorney General Wally Oppal 
next week to discuss ideas for improved law enforcement, and a better 
connection between sentencing and rehabilitation for addicts.

Our North Shore MLAs are listening, and so is the health authority.

It is up to all of us to keep our community safe, and our children well.

Pam Goldsmith-Jones, District of West Vancouver councillor

Maureen McKeon Holmes, District of North Vancouver councillor
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MAP posted-by: Elizabeth Wehrman