Pubdate: Fri, 16 Nov 2007
Source: Coast Reporter (CN BC)
Copyright: 2007 Coast Reporter
Contact:  http://www.coastreporter.net/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/580
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v07/n1314/a03.html?109031
Author: Judith Renaud

KNOWLEDGE IS PARAMOUNT

Dear Editor:

Re: Saving people or money? (Coast Reporter, Nov. 9th '07)

Thank you Stephanie Douglas, for a well documented article regarding the 
recent meeting the community had with retired judge Jerry Paradis and 
retired police officer Tony Smith from Law Enforcement Against Prohibition 
(LEAP). It is difficult to pick up a paper and not see articles regarding 
drugs, youth and violence. We are inundated with news, often leaving us 
bewildered and frustrated not knowing what to do and who to believe. RCMP 
are being shot, young people are dying.

Can we provide answers to these regrettable carnages? Surprisingly, we can 
look to the Internet to provide some direction. There are many 
organizations that can help the public in creating well-funded support 
systems, addiction services and programs that can offer alternatives to the 
failed drug policies we now have in place.

Fear does not have to be our prime motivator. Knowledge and education about 
these issues is paramount to a progressive society. We have a unique 
community on the Sunshine Coast, let us be leaders and provide information 
to our families that keep our children safe as well as knowledgeable!

Judith Renaud, Gibsons