Pubdate: Fri, 13 Apr 2012
Source: Ottawa Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2012 Canoe Limited Partnership
Contact:  http://www.ottawasun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/329
Author: Emile Therien
Note: Paranthetical remark by Sun

SUPPORTING INJECTION SITES

It seems strange and so counterproductive that so many politicians, 
police services, and members of the public at large oppose safe 
injection sites, along with other harm reduction programs.

This opposition flies in the face of common sense and medical 
science! Safe injection sites reduce the chances police officers will 
be exposed to HIV in the course of their work. Those police services, 
including the Vancouver Police Service, who support these harm 
reduction programs recognize this public health fact and concern.

Those police services who oppose these programs should re-consider 
their position, as one of the very important concerns at hand should 
be the health and safety of their members.

Indeed, this should be considered a workplace safety issue! Are they 
willing to put their members at risk? Have they considered the 
horrific consequences of their opposition to proven, cost effective 
harm reduction programs which reduce the harmful side effects of 
illegal drug use, and in the process enhance the safety of police 
officers, other emergency workers, health care workers, and the 
public at large?

When evidenced-based research proves that harm reduction programs, 
including safe-injection sites, are good for public health and 
safety, everyone should take note. Politics and community pandering 
aside, it is about time all policies affecting the public health and 
safety of all citizens should conform with science.

Emile Therien

Ottawa

(Have you read the 300+ page report? There's no science in it. It's 
mostly opinion surveys of addicts)
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom