File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Doug Collins

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: There is no case for public consumption of drugs

Sep 24, 2023 | 7:24 AM

I DO NOT PROFESS IN ANY WAY, shape or form to be an expert on the drug culture — at least in terms of knowing what it is like to take any drugs except prescribed by a doctor after surgery. I mention this only because my logic may be biased.

There’s been a lot of talk this week about the consumption of drugs in a public place. The logic would seem to be that there is some value in allowing drug use in public spaces because for many addicts, including those who are homeless, those public spaces are the only spaces they have.

Northern Vancouver Island Medical Health Officer Dr. Charmaine Enns was quoted in the Vancouver Sun earlier this year as saying driving the drug use deeper underground will only result in more overdose deaths. By doing more drugs alone, the thought is there will be no one there to help if something goes wrong.

The argument has some merit, but my concern is whether or not we do more damage by exposing this use and its subsequent behaviour to a much larger population of youngsters than by worrying about the one person.

That statement seems uncaring and I really feel guilty even saying it. It goes against my belief system. I have had several close friends die from overdoses. I understand the heartache associated with those deaths. But I could not in all good conscience condone the use of drugs in public spaces.

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Culturally appropriate food goes beyond the ingredients on a plate

21h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: Whether building up or tearing down, Kamloops is what you make it

Dec 13, 2024

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: How to reduce food waste in Kamloops during the festive season

Dec 13, 2024

I can live with the decriminalization of small amounts of drugs for personal use, and I can live with supervised consumption sites — although I don’t like them — but public consumption? Nope.

And I’m not in favour of just banning them in places like water parks and kids play areas, but in entire park areas. For example, in Riverside Park here in Kamloops, don’t just ban the use near the waterpark and washrooms, but the entire park. Kids range all over that park, and banning the drugs only in small areas makes no sense whatsoever.

All my life, my efforts have been directed toward helping and caring for others, but sometimes you have a fork in the road and you have to make a choice. On this particular issue, my choice leans toward the kids.

——

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.