GOVERNMENT PRIORITIES OUT OF SYNC WITH THE PUBLIC'S

Re: B.C hasn't the money to help drug-addicted kids, Hogg admits, Kids on
the Street series, Nov. 7

Gordon Hogg, the minister responsible for children and youth, says the
provincial government cannot help drug-addicted kids. But it does have the
money to give the richest few in the province a tax break.

Okay, let's assume Mr. Hogg cares only about money. A kid on the street
costs the system major bucks in emergency health care, extra police
resources and stolen property claims against insurance companies.

So if the kids are already costing lots of money, how about this novel
idea? Spend the money on getting them healthy. That would reduce the
over-all cost to the system. I really don't like having to point out
business ideas to such a business-type government. But someone has to help
them balance their books. Mr. Hogg gets his money and we get healthier kids.

Dean Smith

Vancouver