HEROIN: TIME TO SHOW TOLERANCE

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