LETTER MISSES THE POINT

Thomas Toye (Don't encourage junkies, Letters, Sept 20) expressed his
opinion concerning our local homelessness and drug abuse problem here
in our city.

He says they have the same problem in Scotland and that social
programs waste public funds, doing nothing to help these people
besides supporting their habits. I really find it offensive that Toye
would prefer that no public money be spent on helping the less
fortunate. His comments are proof of his lack of understanding of the
challenges of addictions and mental illnesses.

As a society, I strongly believe we have the moral responsibility to
look after each other and ensure everyone who needs help may have
access to it and that every citizen would have a right to a proper
accommodation. I am surprised that your newspaper decided to publish
this letter that was sent from Scotland where a man expose his
feelings of hatred towards the less fortunate.

Christian Tatonetti

Victoria BC