Pubdate: Sat, 09 Apr 2016
Source: Ottawa Citizen (CN ON)
Copyright: 2016 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact:  http://www.ottawacitizen.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/326
Author: Gail Beck
Page: B7

HARM REDUCTION WORKS, MR. MAYOR

Re: Battle lines drawn on proposed safe injection site for Ottawa, April 6.

I am writing in response to your report on Mayor Jim Watson's and 
Chief Charles Bordeleau's objection to safe injection sites for those 
citizens struggling with addiction.

Your reporter refers to the practice of harm reduction as 
"controversial." In fact, "harm reduction" is a well-established 
pillar in the treatment of addictions and the city of Ottawa ought 
not to restrict its use. Safe injection sites also promote better 
public health by ensuring that drug paraphernalia are disposed of 
effectively and that sufferers are not exposed to blood-borne 
illnesses through the use of "dirty" needles.

A harm reduction strategy is best practice in the treatment of 
addictions and the city should be attentive to that in these days 
when health care dollars are scarce.

Gail Beck, Ottawa, Director, Youth Outpatient Psychiatry, The Royal
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom