Dear Editor,
After reading the Record鈥檚 very good coverage Monday of the Overdose Prevention Pop-Up site adjacent to the hospital, I decided to drop by to find out more and offer my support.
Although I don鈥檛 have a personal connection to the toxic drug crisis I do feel that governments and communities have a duty to do all they can to reduce the risk associated with what has become a very serious situation.
I was so impressed to find folks of many backgrounds at the pop-up site and the way in which they are bringing focus to the issue.
After walking back from previous promises to provide Overdose Prevention Sites across the province the NDP government is pulling back apparently bowing to political pressure .
This is not and should not be seen as a political issue, it is an issue of harm-reduction and saving lives so that people can live another day.
People with lived experience with addictions tell us that these facilities are essential to their care and recovery.
I urge the government to examine your principles and values and move forward ASAP with Overdose Prevention Sites in hospital, it can be done properly and must be done. Your 鈥楧uty of Care鈥� demands no less.
Sincerely waiting for action, Ron Kelly
Courtenay
