OUR OWN DRUG COURT

I agree with The Province's editorial that we need to give addicts an
incentive to get off drugs and get immediate treatment.

That's why, like Britain, Vancouver has an innovative drug treatment
court program that recognizes many drug users are caught in a cycle
of crime and imprisonment that doesn't address their underlying
addiction issues.

After reviewing its effectiveness, Ottawa and the B.C. government
extended the program in April for another three years.

The program helps non-violent offenders overcome their addictions and
thereby, reduce criminal behaviour associated with substance abuse.

Participants follow a structured program of treatment and community
service support to reduce their dependence on illegal drugs.

The drug court helps to ensure people get the treatment they need,
which is the first step in breaking the cycle of addiction.

John Les,

B.C. Solicitor General