Opioid hub survey’s skewed questions limit our answers
I received a phone call from RG Research Group. They proceeded to ask me questions which were the most biased I have ever encountered. As it concerned the downtown opioid hub, which is currently on track for the former Greyhound building, and as our opioid deaths far exceed our COVID-19 deaths, I gave replies.
I was asked whether I want a safe consumption site or did I want that plus treatment programs. I definitely want both, but our MPP has already gone on record as saying that it may take seven years to get treatment in place. A rehab centre in Peterborough is greatly needed, but it will take time, money and change in mindset to build this.
A safe consumption centre is a first step toward treatment. Also, it is a giant step toward reducing crime in the downtown area, as has been documented. So I said I wanted only a safe consumption centre. It is clear to me that to hold out for comprehensive treatment and rehab is the same thing as stopping a good service that is already on track.
They asked me whether I thought that the Greyhound station was the best place, given that perhaps a different place could be proposed. My question would be “Sure, but where?” I would love to see a safe consumption centre with treatment on-site downtown. If you are going to put it out on the highway somewhere, forget it. So I said yes, I think the Greyhound site is the only possible place.
The last question had to do with process through council. I am proud of our city council that the work undertaken by PARN has already been encouraged to expand at such a suitable location. Kudos to all concerned! An opioid hub downtown should make those moving into the new apartments being built there feel much more safe. It also is a sign that we are a community that cares for our most vulnerable.
I am concerned that many good people will have answered the questions in this skewed survey this way: “Yes I want both.” Yes, a different and bigger location would be better. Yes, council should approve the location before approving the service. There was no way to answer only that a downtown location is necessary, and that right now is already too late for those who have died.
This research company appears to be based in Arlington, Va. I cry shame on those who hired them.