ROTHENBURGER: Forum on drugs and social disorder provided plenty to think about

Featured panelist last night was controversial Vancouver filmmaker Aaron Gunn, who has documented what’s not working in the battle against drug-related issues. Some didn’t think he should be allowed to speak in Kamloops because of things he’s said on other social matters but if he’d been banned it would have robbed the community of a lot of valuable insight into the problem.

Youth worker Chris Dornan, the other panelist, added personal insights.

Some of the town hall-style discussion involved a re-statement of what we already know: that the system is broken, that the focus in B.C. on so-called “safer supply” and housing in the absence of effective treatment isn’t solving anything.

There were some stories about the impact of the crime that goes along with addictions, and some excellent information about toxic drugs but it was mostly about searching for answers.

As a Westsyde resident put it, “We don’t have a frickin’ clue where to go” to help in finding solutions.

A new system developed next door in Alberta, however, found a lot of favour with the audience. Called the Alberta Model, it’s a recovery-oriented system that focuses on quick access to long-term treatment.

Nobody expected all the answers last night but, as Gunn said, a willingness to debate the problem is a good start.

I’m Mel Rothenburger, the Armchair Mayor.

Mel Rothenburger is a regular contributor to CFJC Today, publishes the ArmchairMayor.ca opinion website, and is a recipient of the Jack Webster Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award. He has served as mayor of Kamloops, school board chair and TNRD director, and is a retired newspaper editor. He can be reached at mrothenburger@armchairmayor.ca.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.

by Mel Rothenburger

ROTHENBURGER: Forum on drugs and social disorder provided plenty to think about

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