CRACK-PIPE KITS MAY BE DISTRIBUTED BY SUMMER

Crack-pipe components could be distributed to the capital region's
approximate 500 hard-core crack-cocaine smokers and 1,200 casual
users by this summer, according to the chief medical health officer
of the Vancouver Island Health Authority.

Dr. Richard Stanwick will first answer more questions by regional
polticians about the cost and effectiveness of the harm-reduction
program, which has been mandated by the province.

The components -- plastic tubing and push-sticks -- cost about seven
cents each and are paid for by the B.C. Centre for Disease Control.

Crack addicts who cut or burn their lips on the pipe can pass on
infectious diseases such as hepatitis C when sharing the devices.