NEEDLE EXCHANGE HARDLY A 'SUCCESS'

Regarding "Needle exchange succeeding in Boston" (Sunday Standard-Times):

Thank you for a very informative report.

According to Robert Maginnis of the Washington, D.C.-based Family Research
Council, "anything other than abstinence sends the wrong message to young
people."

I would compare this comment to the advice given to Catholics by the
Vatican: "Just say no (to sex). Condoning condom use sends the wrong
message."

I would suggest the success rate of both in the "war against AIDS" is about
the same: 2 to 3 percent. Mr. Maginnis would do well to take his head out
of the sand long enough to look around and take stock. Members of his own
family might be the next victims of his short-sighted policy.

PAT DOLAN Vancouver B.C.