"Are addicts the only one who deserve harm reduction? Who is looking out for neighbourhoods?"

While, the title of this blog is "Thoughts on BC Politics and More" ... I wonder how many have noticed, or remember, the sub-heading?  It states that it is to include, "A Discussion on the political, economic, and social issues in British Columbia and Canada".

That was deliberate on my part, as I did not want this blog to merely be a political commentary, and yes I know, some of you will also include the word 'rhetoric' --- fair enough.  That said, socio- economic issues are important to me, and I believe to the majority of people as well.  That's why I have always described myself as a fiscal conservative, with a social conscience. 

I believe a community cannot be healthy if there is only a focus on jobs and money -- the well-being of its' people / citizens must also be factored in.  That's why today I am pleased to offer the following commentary from two Kamloops residents ... Caroline King, and Dennis Giesbrecht.  Here's what they had to say, and as always, feel free to have your say down below in the Comments Section:

As communities grapple with drug addiction, and overdoses, much money and resources have been thrown at the issue -- targeting a relatively small number; the addicts.  It appears however, that little cash has been set aside to help communities here in our province, including Kamloops, deal with the growing problem of discarded needles. 

Why?

In the city of Kamloops, over a quarter million needles -- TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THOUSAND -- were handed out last year (2017), with no real plan to track and get them back. Yes, a few sharps containers have been set up around town, but there is ZERO incentive for the users to actually use them. 

Let's give them one.

The other day we, along with a few friends, toured the homeless encampments to offer the addicted 5 cents each for the used needles. We have all seen the addicted cross the street for a 5 cent pop can; we're hoping this will work, and begins to removed the major issue of discarded syringes in our parks and playgrounds.

There is likely going to be push-back on this, however we're prepared to accept that because it means a very real step has been taken in the protection of the people of our city -- especially our young children who have a right to feel safe when enjoying our playgrounds and water-parks.

This is not about enabling, supporting or facilitating addiction.  Rather, it's about community safety. This is about the current system, one that we as citizens have zero control over, that is clearly not working.  

As we have stated, sharps are handed out dozens at a time, with no real way of getting them back off the streets.  The question then deserves to be asked ... "Are addicts the only one who deserve harm reduction?  Who is looking out for neighbourhoods?"

It's obvious the current plan (or lack there-of) has failed Kamloops, in a major way.  Instead, it has provided harm reduction to one group, in exchange for possibly harming another. 

This pilot project proves we can come up with solutions that not only can, but will, work.  Rather than looking at a situation, and feeling hopeless about seeing resolution, we, have shown that offering cash for the return of used needles can work.

Thanks to everyone who lent advice, and helped us make this happen. Let’s hope Kamloops gets on board in considering new ways to keep citizens safe.

Who is CAROLINE KING:
I come from a family deeply rooted in the resource sector. I have always been proud to come from such hard-working roots.  I am a wife, mother of two amazing teenage boys, and my husband Mike is my strongest supporter.  Kamloops is our home, and I plan to retire here with hopes my children and future generations will have the opportunity to stay close by.

I have always been interested and passionate about politics, and became involved in supporting local economic development opportunities when the Ajax Mine application came to town.  Despite the outcome, I am proud to be known as the woman who created the Support Ajax movement in Kamloops.  That said, I also hope to also be known as the Councillor who supports all economic, employment, and social programs and opportunities that aid the prosperity of the community that I love. 

Who is DENNIS GIESBRECHT:
Kamloops is a city with so much untapped potential.

I moved back to Kamloops 13 years ago to raise my family.  I have been a business owner, and have spent most of my working career working away from home so my family could enjoy the benefits of being in Kamloops. 

I want my to children to have every opportunity to thrive in Kamloops. Whether engineer, or artist, I hope we strive for ever opportunity for our community.