DRUG USE HAS GONE UP SINCE THE "WAR ON DRUGS"

I regularly read Jose Rodriguez's articles and generally agree. However, I was
disappointed with "High absurdity," (Sept. 19.) Is he aware European countries
with similar drug policies to B.C. boast much better results with addicts than
in Canada or the U.S.? The $3 million to $4 million the government is spending
to set up this new program is small in comparison to health costs associated
with the addict population. When clean needles are provided to addicts, it
helps keep innocents away from stray needles on the street. I am sure people
living in East Vancouver applaud the measures. Drug use has gone up since the
"war on drugs" was announced by Reagan. Why does Rodriguez think it will work
20 years later? Some estimates suggest drugs are responsible for 60-70% of
B&Es, home invasions and violent assaults. An addict doesn't do these things
when he or she is high. They do these things in search of money or goods to
allow them to get high again.

Kevin Lawlor

(Injection sites won't stop crime.)