NO QUICK FIXES - LETTER 5 OF 5

Some readers think helping addicts out of the abyss is better than enabling
them to make drug suppliers rich

The story about a right-wing fix to clean up the drug mess was finally a
different perspective. All the candidates running for mayor seem to be
saying, some more full-heartedly than others, that safe injection sites are
the only way to go.

I also feel compassion for addicted fellow humans and I don't support an
American-style war on drugs. But there are so many questions I feel are not
being dealt with.

Vern Campbell (it's hard to keep track of all the Campbell's in politics
lately) is quoted as saying that the injection sites are medically
supervised. Since the medical staff does not supply the drugs, however,
they have no idea what kind of poison goes into the addict's veins. How
would medical professionals feel if they ended up hurting or killing their
patients instead of helping them?

If the drugs have been obtained through an illegal action, by the addict or
somebody else, aren't we simply accepting this unacceptable high crime rate?

Are we supporting a solid customer base for the dealers, who make sure that
clients stay hooked? Repeat customer are the backbone of every business.
Are we not simply becoming enablers for drug users?

We have to help fellow citizens in need, but I have serious doubts that
these questions can be answered in satisfactory manner.

Hans Opelka

North Vancouver