Pubdate: Thu, 12 Jul 2012
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2012 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact: http://www2.canada.com/theprovince/letters.html
Website: http://www.theprovince.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: Spencer Smith

HAND UP, NOT OUT

Addicts seeking help should have access to treatment facilities and, 
or, treatment programs.

But with all due respect, as an Abbotsford resident I completely 
disagree with your editorial.

In Abbotsford, we do not believe in enabling drug use the way 
Vancouver does, which is why the by law was introduced. Harm 
reduction is just another term for "enabling" a person to stay 
addicted. I find it offensive to give out free drug paraphernalia to 
addicts, given that diabetics have to pay for theirs.

Unlike a diabetic, at some point in their lives addicts make a choice 
to abuse drugs. These people need a hand up, not a hand out, which is 
why I will continue to support this bylaw.

Spencer Smith,

Abbotsford
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