IMPROPERLY DISPOSED SYRINGES POSE HARBOURFRONT HEALTH AND SAFETY
THREAT

Problem Attributed To Intravenous Drug Uses Who Discard The Syringes
In Bushes, Flower Gardens And Grassy Areas

Incidences of improperly disposed hypodermic syringes on the
Harbourfront was addressed as a growing public safety concern among
Harbourtown Centre committee members, during discussion at the monthly
meeting, July 8.

The problem is attributed to intravenous drug uses who discard the
syringes after use in bushes, flower gardens and grassy areas along
the boardwalk. The needles pose a potential health threat to children
playing or people relaxing on the grass who could get pricked by a
needle contaminated with HEP C or HIV.

Matiowski noted his Harbourfront workers routinely collect several
syringes daily and up to a dozen following weekend events.

"That's what concerns me. At one time we didn't have this problem. The
drug scene is increasing," he said. "Hopefully with the cooperation of
the OPP and other SYRINGES from page 1

organizations we will find some solutions."

Matiowski noted the workers take precautions collecting the syringes
by wearing protective gloves and depositing the sharps in protective
containers for disposal at the Morningstar Centre collection depot.

OPP Community Services officer Cnst. Dave Cain referred to the number
of syringes collected as indicative of a growing social concern Kenora
shares with other communities across the district.

"(Drug abuse) It's definitely a problem in our area," Const. Cain
said. "At this time of year we're getting more people into town, kids
tied in with (Winnipeg) gangs and with that comes drugs and thefts."

In response to a question by committee member John Berringer, Const.
Cain acknowledged that the illegal drug situation is probably not any
worse that any other community of Kenora's size although it is a sad
indicator of the times.

He referred to school prevention programs undertaken by the OPP in the
ongoing effort to educate and deter youth from drugs and gangs, noting
that once someone adopts the criminal lifestyle, it's often too late.

"Drugs are part of life now whether we like it or not. We'd love to be
able to stop it but it's not going to happen," he said.

Matiowski attributed the problem in part to the criminal justice
system for youth. He referred to conversations he's had with several
former young offenders he's encountered on the Harbourfront who,
recently released from youth detention centres, have no where to go.

"They have no family support and are back on the street with no money
or shelter. What are they going to do?" Matiowki questioned. "They're
not bad kids and could be rehabilitated. We (as a community) are going
to have to do something about it sooner or later."

Const. Cain agreed, saying the OPP is looking to get more involved
with youth programs. He suggested the initiative will require "buy-in"
by youth and "ownership" by the community to successfully turn kids
around.