Pubdate: Sat, 16 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: Carol Burrows
Page: B7
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v16/n228/a02.html

LET'S SUPPORT THIS HARM-REDUCTION PLAN

Re: Drug site needs city approval, Hoskins says; and Medical officer of 
health backs injection sites, April 8.

The concept of "harm reduction" is not easy for many of us to accept.
In the current dialogue about the need for a safe injection site,
however, Sandy Hill Community Health Centre is showing admirable
initiative and foresight. A community consultation is being
undertaken, and the program has the support in principle of federal
and provincial governments, and Ottawa's Medical Officer of Health.

The research shows that such programs reduce neighbourhood crime and
more importantly, significantly reduce the number of fatal overdoses.
The submission for funding needs municipal support. Now is the time
for us to raise our voices in support of this program for Ottawa. We
cannot, and should not, ignore or judge those whose lives have led
them to addiction. Their best chance now depends on a supportive, safe
environment which may save them a painful death on the streets, and
encourage them to turn to rehabilitation programs.

Ottawa can lead the province by taking a small step to do what is
right.

Carol Burrows, Ottawa
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MAP posted-by: Matt