CARNEGIE CENTRE CLARIFIES POLICY

Regarding "Drug Addicts Allowed Into Carnegie Centre" [Straight Talk,
April 17-24], I wish to clarify the Carnegie Centre's admissions policy.

People with addictions always have been allowed into Carnegie; there
never has been a rule that they were banned, as stated in the article.

However, people are not admitted when they are visibly under the
influence of drugs or alcohol, nor is it permissible to bring into the
building alcohol or drugs, as their presence or consumption has always
been prohibited. The discussions with the Vancouver Area Network of
Drug Users, which were mediated by the B.C. Human Rights Commission,
made the latter rule more explicit and have therefore made redundant
the previous stipulation that a person was not admitted into Carnegie
if seen buying drugs at the corner of Main and Hastings.

The policies for personal behaviour at the Carnegie support our aim
to provide a place where people are welcomed, accepted, and encouraged
to express themselves and to contribute to the life of the centre and
the community. Carnegie is a place where disabilities are respected
and the abilities in all are encouraged.

Michael Clague, director, Carnegie Community Centre Vancouver