To the editor,
Re: Count tallies more than 500 experiencing homelessness, April 17.
With the release of the Nanaimo homelessness count, we have to start admitting the province’s drug decriminalization experiment has not worked.
People we see living on our streets every day are usually drug addicted to the hilt and mentally ill. They cannot make sensible choices on their own. The Mental Health Act must be brought into play to save them and everyday citizens who are accosted, who are victims of theft and assault.
Paramedics and firefighters have to deal with this every day, hourly in some cases. By handing over so-called ‘safer supply’ (not working) and free housing – which most on the street cannot handle and many have been kicked out of shelters/homes for unsavoury behaviour – the only chance for their survival and the safety of all citizens is involuntary mandatory care for most.
Stop the insanity. Stop the deaths. Stop the fires and violence that have engulfed our once safe, sane streets.
Jen Darwin, Nanaimo
READ ALSO: Count shows more people experiencing homelessness than ever in Nanaimo
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press Media or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Letters policy: Letters should be no longer than 250 words and will be edited. Preference is given to letters expressing an opinion on issues of local relevance or responding to items published in the News Bulletin. Include your address (it won’t be published) and a first name or two initials, and a surname. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters sent to the News Bulletin may also be published in the Ladysmith Chronicle.
Mail: Letters, Nanaimo News Bulletin, 777 Poplar St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9S 2H7
Fax: 250-753-0788
E-mail: editor@nanaimobulletin.com