VIEW ROYAL BACKS METH MOTION

When Esquimalt Coun. Ruth Layne couldn't get her own council to support her
she turned to her neighbours. And they did not let her down.

After twice begging her Esquimalt peers to support a motion entitled
Strategy for Reduction of Crystal Methamphetamine Use," Layne ventured
north to View Royal to ask View Royal council to support the motion.

Given the urgency of the matter, the UBCM took the unusual step of agreeing
to a change in sponsorship.

View Royal council gave unanimous support to the resolution.

On July 4, Esquimalt council, in part citing issues with timing, blocked
the motion by virtue of a 3-3 tie.

A week later, Layne appeared again, this time with a supporting letter from
the Crystal Meth Victoria Society - of which Layne is a founding director.

Her press for action once again met with no support.

According to a View Royal staff report, The rapid increase in crystal
methamphetamine use is alarming." The report states that the number of
Victoria teens seeking help with addiction problems has increased by 70 per
cent.

Layne said that she could not understand the reasons behind Esquimalt
council's decision.

Layne offered to speak to the resolution on behalf of View Royal or to work
with View Royal council to ensure that the matter is properly put forward.

With files from the Esquimalt News.