PARAPHERNALIA COMPLAINT HEARD

Parents in Langley, fed up with convenience stores that sell
paraphernalia to make illicit drugs, are turning to politicians in
the Township and City of Langley which issue licences to the businesses.

Cyanna Mufford, president of the Parent Advisory Council at
Willoughby Elementary, appeared before the Langley school board on
Tuesday night, appealing to trustees to write to the two local councils.

Mufford said that the councils need to do their part through bylaws
and enforcement.

What is occurring at some neighbourhood stores contradicts the
positive programs on drug awareness carried out by the school
district, she said.

"What are we telling our children if it is alright to sell the
paraphernalia at the local corner store?" she asked.

"We need to be active partners in protecting our children and promote
positive community involvement in social community issues," Mufford
told trustees.

"This isn't just a Willoughby problem. It is happening all over our
community," she added.

The parent body and professionals need to develop a strategy to
enhance the community as a whole, for the protection of children, she said.

Last month, when Mufford made the same appeal to Township council,
she called the display of drug-making equipment "a blatant display of
disrespect."

Council responded by asking staff to investigate how a bylaw,
governing display or a total ban, could be implemented.

On Wednesday, chief bylaw enforcement officer Bill Storie said that
the Township is waiting to see what the City of Surrey does with its
proposed bylaw which is on the agenda for Surrey's Feb. 20 meeting.
If passed, stores would be prohibited from selling the equipment.

Surrey's legislation currently relates only to its display.