SAFE INJECTION SITES

Authorities Require More Power, Control

Editor;

Re: Safe injection sites poked (Peace Arch News, June 22)

I worked extensively in the addictions field. I have seen it all,
from the downtown east side to Whalley. I still do not have the answers.

I recently returned from a trip to Europe to research a military
reunion. I was the guest of the mayor of Faulquemont. I was in more
bars than in the previous 10 years. Used their public transit system.
What was apparent was the lack of drunks, addicts, panhandlers and
homeless. I took my questions to the mayor. I wanted to know where they were.

His answer astounded me.

This city has bylaws. Public displays of drunkenness or addiction are
frowned upon and the fine is heavy, the prison sentence is stiff (you
get 12 months, you serve 12 months). Repeat offences require
mandatory treatment.

Their parks are relatively safe, their modes of travel make ours look
like a jungle. The city has authority to enforce this and they
support their police.

The drug dogs and police in full battle gear are there to provide a
message: Not in our city." And it works.

At the same time, the police were friendly and helpful and after the
initial shock of seeing them, I felt comfortable and safe.

We need to carry the message to our politicians that laws need to be
changed to give cities the rights they need and the support our police deserve.

Christine Eden

Surrey