DURING many years in the criminal justice system, I have witnessed the
devastating effects of heroin addiction. I have seen addicts lose
everything, including their freedom, and I have seen what heroin
addiction does to families. It destroys lives.

In the past decade heroin has become cheaper to obtain and purer. More
people are using it, more people are addicts.

"Zero tolerance" appears to have had little effect, except for filling
prisons. Police are losing the war. It is time to try a different approach.

If safe injecting rooms are tested and they save only one life, we are
better off.

If a trial results in the saving of more lives and has an impact on
the level and types of crimes associated with heroin addicts, and if
it saves taxpayers' money, then the question is why haven't we tried
this sooner?

Having toured the Wesley Central Mission's proposed safe injecting
room in Lonsdale Street, I am convinced it will be a useful and safe
place for heroin users, as well as providing rehabilitation, medical
services and other day-to-day necessities.

For anyone who doesn't understand the devastation caused by heroin, I
suggest some time sitting in any magistrates' court or emergency
section of a public hospital.

We should support and encourage victims of heroin addiction, rather
than lack the courage to try something new.

Steve Drazetic,
Ascot Vale