Pubdate: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 Source: Nanaimo Daily News (CN BC) Copyright: 2009 Nanaimo Daily News Contact: http://www.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1608 Author: Paul Walton Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?137 (Needle Exchange) 'SO FAR, SO GOOD' AT NEW HOME OF NEEDLE EXCHANGE As a Good Neighbour Agreement over a downtown health service, including a needle exchange, nears completion, all appears to be quiet at the Franklyn Street location Late last year when it was announced the service was moving from Robarts Street to Franklyn Street, and being renamed Harris House, businesses in the area raised objections. It later emerged that despite claims the Vancouver Island Health Authority would carry out public consultations about moving any such facilities, that was not done. Gord Cote, executive director for Nanaimo and Area Resources for Families, which runs the facility, said the area has been "relatively quiet" since they began operating early in January. He said they are now completing the move from Robarts Street and "integrating into the neighbourhood." Eric McLean, with the Old City Quarter Association, said nothing has happened at the clinic to raise concerns. "So far, so good," said McLean. "There's been no incidents that I'm aware of." Cote said the only incident that raised any concern was a yelling match on the street. He said they continue to work with residents through the GNA process to make the facility a welcome place for clients and neighbours. McLean said though early indications are good, the association is being vigilant. "We're monitoring it pretty closely," said McLean. An open house at Harris House is set for April 7. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom