TOO MUCH TEMPTATION FOR HEROIN ADDICTS

I HAVE been reading with interest the reactions from people to the drug
debate on these pages. It is the Government's reaction to the problem that
has prompted me to write to you today.

I am a 30-year-old woman who has had more than ample opportunity to take
drugs of all types. I have declined offers on the premise that if I don't
try it, I can't enjoy it, and if I can't enjoy it, I can't become addicted
to it. Too simple a concept? It seems so. Curiosity doesn't come into it. I
have seen the devastating effects of drugs on people I know and love and
this has quelled my curiosity.

My good friend had a serious drug problem. She started taking heavy drugs
when she was 14. She is now 30 and has been clean of all types of drugs
(including alcohol) for six months. She made a decision to be clean and
acted on it, just as many other drug users make the decision every day to
use. Many users will be dancing with glee; free heroin, a safe place to use
and clean needles (and a cup of tea while the drug kicks in). Why would
addicts want to get clean if this is on offer?

Why is it that the Government can, and probably will, pump millions of
dollars into funding a haven for users, but close the beds and emergency
wards of hospitals to those who have no choice if they are injured or sick?
Why are the elderly denied beds in aged-care facilities while the addicts
will be free to enjoy the benefits of free heroin?

The men and women who fought in wars for this country are now being
neglected because of a shortage of beds in aged-care facilities caused by
lack of funding. The Government thinks that it is appropriate to put money
into drugs, but doesn't deem it suitable to care appropriately for the aged
or sick.

I am disheartened that my children will grow up to live in this country of
contradiction and indifference.

CATHERINE BERRY, Huntingdale.