DRUG APPROACH SHOULD BE BALANCED

Dear sir,

Re: 'Drug dogs eyed', (Sentinel, Dec. 8), as the Kitimat RCMP detachment
commander I wish to assure the citizens of Kitimat that our detachment is
committed to working closely with school officials on the issue of drugs
within our schools.

As a progressive policing organization, I view our role as building
bridges with our youth through enabling positive relationships and not
through unnecessary, overly aggressive enforcement measures that only
serve to disenfrachise youth in that relationship building process.

The issue of drugs in our schools should incorporate a balanced
approach of enforcement and dialogue involving school officials,
students, parents and community members in exploring viable, lasting
solutions.

Staff Sgt. Bob Perry

Kitimat RCMP detachment