DRUG TRADE DESTROYS NEIGHBOURHOOD

In reply to Barbara Yaffe's July 27 column, "Justice system just a
revolving door," I have first-hand evidence of the fact.

I live in the Ford Building, and it seems that this large residence
opposite the Carnegie Centre at Main and Hastings is invisible. Yet
residents here have been subjected to increasing noise, verbal abuse,
threats, physical attacks, regular lack of sleep and property damage. We
were here before the influx of drug traffickers and users who found
proximity to the needle exchange and lack of enforcement of federal drug
laws an open invitation to set up shop. Legitimate businesses have fled.

The City of Vancouver has made much of its agreement with the provincial
and federal governments to clean up the corner. Yet the need for public
safety continues to be disregarded. Loiterers are threatening and
obstructing passage of law-abiding citizens on these city-owned sidewalks.
On average, 100 people gather in front of the Carnegie Centre day and night
to openly deal and use drugs.

We need public order restored immediately by reducing harm to all
individuals who live here by enforcing existing laws against the illicit
drug trade. Do you give an alcoholic a drink and claim you're helping him?
No city, provincial or federal resource of any kind should be used to
assist, facilitate or maintain the use and dealing of illegal drugs.

M.L. Jewell

Vancouver