SAFE INJECTION SITES ARE A HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUE

It seems rather mind-boggling that Ottawa's police chief opposes safe
injection sites, which reduce the odds police officers will be exposed
to HIV in the course of their work. This fact is recognized by many
police services in the United States. The Atlantic City, New Jersey,
police in December 2008 supported that city's needle exchange program,
primarily because it reduces the odds their members will be exposed to
HIV infection in their work. In the United States all states now have
needle exchange programs. Chief White should reconsider his position
on this major public health matter. Indeed, for him, for the police
administration and the police union this should be a workplace safety
issue. It should be noted that based on evidence, the Vancouver Police
Department supports the continuance of that city's supervised
injection site.

It is about time we start treating drug use and drug addiction for
what it is -- a public health problem. When evidence-based research
shows harm reduction programs are good for public health, everyone
should take note.

Emile Therien,

Public Health and Safety Advocate,

Ottawa