GROUP SEEKS INJUNCTION TO KEEP INSITE OPEN

Thousands Of Letters Heading PM's Way

Supporters of Vancouver's safe injection site are taking their battle
to the courtroom.

The Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU) said yesterday it
will seek a legal injunction to keep the facility open.

Pressure is mounting on federal officials to make a decision before
the legal exemption that allows the site to operate expires, Sept. 12.

In Vancouver Wednesday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Health
Minister Tony Clement would make a decision soon.

VANDU member and former president Dean Wilson cited a recent study
that found the site saved up to $8 million in criminal and emergency
medical costs.

"If he's fiscally responsible, it's a no-brainer that he has to
support the site," said Wilson.

Advocates mailed 4,000 letters to Harper yesterday, and released poll
results showing that more than 70 per cent of Lower Mainland
residents support the site.