VISITING JUNKIES DON'T STAY, CLINIC SAYS

Coun. Rose Rosenberger's idea to send money-strapped heroin addicts
out of town may be a solution to a problem that doesn't exist, says
the head of the city's methadone program.

Jerry Moran, of the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission, said
he's not heard of heroin addicts travelling to Edmonton to use the
methadone treatment program - the only one in the province - and then
falling off the wagon to be stranded here because they're too poor.

"Given the dynamics of our program it would be unlikely that it would
happen," he said.

Moran was reacting to Rosenberger's statements on the methadone clinic
- - and other city social programs - that draw people to Edmonton.

"If they fall off the wagon do you think they go back (home?)," she
asked.

Rosenberger suggested money from Edmonton's social programs,
attractive to out-of-towners, could be diverted to help get people
without enough money back home.

Addicts from other communities who use AADAC's methadone program
understand they have to fund their own way here and back, Moran said.

They spend an average of four to six weeks in Edmonton for the
methadone program, but then continue their treatment in their home
towns, he said.

"I can't remember anyone staying," he said.

Rosenberger made the statement based on information that she's
received from others, she said. "All I know is what people have told
me," she said.

Rosenberger also pointed out that people flock to Edmonton when
affordable housing is scarce in surrounding communities.

"If you want to live in Edmonton we'll look for ways to house you, but
if you want to go somewhere else let's see if we can help you get there."

But the Salvation Army says the plan smacks of prejudice against
out-of-towners.

"That doesn't sound very warm and friendly to me," said Capt. Brian
Venables of the Salvation Army.