COMPLEX ISSUE

Jody Paterson's column of Aug. 17, on illicit drugs "Dosanjh's
hard-line drug ideas won't work" is an oversimplification of my
efforts to address a complex societal issue. I would like to
reiterate my long-standing position on this matter.

I recognize that the issue of illicit drug use is fraught with
complexities. There are a wide range of opinions on the best way to
deal with illicit drug use in our society. As the federal government
is responsible for Canada's drug laws, I have repeatedly called for a
national drug strategy. I have consistently favoured a three-pronged
approach:

* Better prevention and anti-drug education for youth;

* Programs dealing with drug abuse and addiction with the objective of
getting addicts off drugs; and

* Getting tougher on individuals who callously profit from
addiction.

In the meantime, British Columbia is examining innovative approaches
to this issue in co-operation with other levels of government. As an
example, we are working to establish a pilot drug court in Vancouver's
downtown eastside.

The drug court concept can reduce the revolving-door syndrome
associated with drug offences by requiring offenders to take treatment
for their addiction.

Ujjal Dosanjh, Q.C.,
Attorney General