Pubdate: Thu, 25 Aug 2016
Source: Now, The (Surrey, CN BC)
Copyright: 2016 Canwest Publishing Inc.
Contact:  http://www.thenownewspaper.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1462
Author: Philippa Powers

WE MUST FIND WAY TO KEEP RIG DIG ALIVE

The Editor,

Surrey's "Rig Dig" program is in jeopardy. The Rig Dig program allows 
for the collection of used needles in the area surrounding city hall 
and the "Strip."

As the Now recently reported, in 2015, this program was responsible 
for the collection of 600,000 discarded used needles. Many of these 
needles still had blood in them.

The Rig Dig program is run by the Lookout Emergency Aid Society whose 
provincial gaming grant is not being renewed. Unfortunately, this 
means that their peer-lead needle recovery program is in crisis.

The area patrolled by Rig Dig includes the Chuck Bailey Recreation 
Centre and the neighbouring skate park, which is regularly used by 
teens. Across the street is a park with playground equipment 
frequented by children.

 From where I sit, 600,000 discarded needles combined with children 
and teens playing is an accident waiting to happen. I foresee some 
major health issues for youth unfortunate enough to encounter these 
uncapped, dirty needles.

Surely, there must be some way to keep this essential service going. 
The cost of keeping this program is minimal compared to the costs 
involved in treating those who accidentally prick themselves with one 
of these discarded needles.

We must find a way or the area around city hall will soon be awash in 
600,000 discarded needles.

Philippa Powers, Surrey
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom