Needle hazard needs to be addressed

Last week, two letters regarding the disposal of hypodermic needles in the downtown were published by the Prince George Citizen, I would like to contribute a word regarding the subject.

First, Jordan Harris comments concerning Brian Skakun’s “intolerance” were unfounded.

I do not in any way criticize Harris’s knowledge on the subject matter, but I think that the language and tone of his letter shows a misunderstanding when it comes to Mr. Skakun’s original sentiments.

I do not believe for a second that Skakun is blind to the issue, nor is he intolerant or not understanding of the current needle and addiction problem within the city. In fact, I think that he is poised to be very knowledgeable and informed. Coun. Skakun simply pointed out that the measures taken by Northern Health, the city and individuals using IV drugs to combat the proliferation of discarded and potentially dangerous needles, are falling short. To this, I agree.

In both letters to The Citizen, and in the comments made on social media, enough has been said to bring the issue forward and in that, the published comments have found a voice and hopefully an ear. I think that while Mr. Harris’s comments are very helpful in illustrating an important issue, I think he genuinely missed the true intent and subscribed view of Skakun’s point, and that is that more needs to be done. I’m sure that if Harris knew Skakun the way I do, he would see that Skakun truly does care for the community, all of the community, and that his comment was not an attack against addicts, but an attack against addiction and needles, the refuse that is left behind.

I thank both parties for eloquently voicing their perspectives, and only suggest that a direct dialogue between the two of you would illuminate the fact that you are both on the same side.

The sobering and simple fact is, that no matter how good of a job we think certain individuals or organizations are doing to combat discarded needles, sickness or death due to contaminated needles in any small amount, is unacceptable.

Any way in which we can halt rather than mitigate this hazard needs to be examined and it is the duty of those in a position of civic responsibility to challenge those in a position that can make a difference to do better.

Mike Maslen Prince George