ACTION BETTER PLAN THAN RESEARCH

The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce believes that the objectives
of any harm-reduction strategy must include measurable community
goals of safer streets, less property crime, reduced homelessness and vagrancy.

A harm-reduction strategy must be supported by all three levels of
government and participation from our regional municipalities --
costs must not be placed solely on the Victoria taxpayer.

The recently announced study into a safe drug-usage site in the
capital city will aid in creating a long-term solution.

We have created a system of decision-making that requires extensive
consultation and detailed research that does not encourage short-term action.

But the community has clearly stated that we need to move forward now
in improving our public safety.

A research study to be completed in one year, followed by a proposal
to the federal government for a project requiring a Criminal Code
exemption, could not possibly result in any local action to address
this problem in less than two years.

We need to ensure that we take action in the interim to address this
critical issue.

The decision on what small steps have to be done will be made with
little public consultation and lack the support of research data but
must be done regardless. We need to support and encourage our leaders
to take a few risks.

The chamber is in favour of the community court project because it
provides the rehabilitation and support services necessary to offer a
holistic solution and address root causes.

The city and police are in support of this initiative.

The time frame on this may be shorter, but it is also not immediate
action. Innovative short term ideas have included needle drop boxes,
public washrooms and others.

Research is good. Action is imperative.

Bruce Carter,

Chief Executive Officer,

Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.