WHAT'S NEXT? FREE SMOKES?

Editor, The News:

Addicts need a "safe place" to shoot up.

That is the opinion of some members of the Fraser Valley Health Region board.

They claim that this will help prevent the spread of AIDS and hepatitis C.

Maybe the addicts should also be supplied with free drugs and needles and
comfortable surroundings while taking drugs.

Why should only drug addicts be treated as special citizens?

How about taxpayer-financed brothels so prostitutes and their clients won't
be bothered by the police and will not have to pay high prices for hotel rooms?

Then there are the people who can't get enough money without working, so
they must engage in acts like robbing gas stations, convenience stores and
even banks.

Maybe we should consider having special ATMs so they can get the cash they
need without fear of arrest.

How about setting aside a few streets for those who want to compete in road
racing? Why should they not be able to follow their compulsions without
fear of arrest?

If we supply drugs and other amenities to drug addicts, aren't smokers and
alcoholics entitled to the same benefits?

Drug possession and distribution are illegal in B.C.

Drug addiction is not an affliction a person catches from another. It is
self-induced.

Why should tax dollars be used to make their addiction more enjoyable for them?

All it will do is entice more people to get hooked on drugs.

James Murray

Abbotsford