WHOLE OTHER WORLD OUT THERE

In your Aug. 27 edition, Mr. Randy Cairns writes that programs for street
people and addicts are the solutions for the crystal meth problem. He makes
some valid points, however he completely overlooks a whole other world out
there.

The producers and wholesale distributors of crystal meth are not necessarily
poor addicts trying to eke out their next fix. They are not homeless and
they are not victims. They are criminals who are profiting from creating
victims. They promote property crimes and their illegal labs are extremely
dangerous. They prey on the very people Mr. Cairns wants to help.

It is these criminals I believe should be facing serious prison time, and no
further bail if they re-offend while on bail. I have requested the public
assist by signing petitions that are now being distributed in retail
outlets.

The Maple Ridge initiative recognizes that the community needs to come
together to find community solutions for the problem. All levels of
government need to be included.

Maple Ridge has formed three task forces: enforcement, treatment and
education. This threat can only be conquered with a program that combines
all three.

In the next month or so there will be a community forum on crystal meth in
Mission. It will seek input toward a local solution. I hope Mr. Cairns will
bring his ideas forward then, but in the interim, I will continue to urge
public support to remove the criminals producing this plague from our
community by signing the petitions.

Randy Hawes, MLA Maple Ridge-Mission