|
Local: Value in a name
Commentary by Chris Clegg
for South Peace News
The decision by the M.D. of Big Lakes to continue the war on drugs by supporting the enhanced policing program should be applauded by everyone in the region.
Council’s decision Sept. 30 ensures the program’s survival until 2013 and guarantees at least two law enforcement officials will be working to curtail the local drug trade.
In no way should anyone imply Peavine Metis Settlement and the Town of High Prairie’s role in the issue is not important – they have both contributed $30,000 a year over three years – but it’s the M.D.’s $166,000 a year contribution which ensures its survival.
In short, it was the M.D.’s call whether the program would survive.
One by one, councillors had their say. Each one had a valid reason for their stand. Whether you were for it or against it, each reason cited was not without thought and not without merit.
It came down to each councillor voting with their heart.
There are two underlying issues here which need to be examined.
First, councillors Ken Matthews and David Marx have historically been concerned over the lack of financial contributions from First Nations and Metis Settlements when it comes to funding recreation. It is no secret the M.D. and Town of High Prairie pay the bills.
What is perplexing is how Matthews and Marx both voted to create another money pit where they would pay the majority of the bills.
And, in this case, it’s even worse. Town council and the M.D. fund recreation 50 per cent each. In regard to policing, the M.D. pays $136,000 of the yearly $206,000 cost or just over 66 per cent. In fact, this is even a worse deal for the M.D. than recreation.
Looking at the issue philosophically – and only philosophically - it is perplexing Matthews and Marx voted for enhanced policing given the stand on recreation.
“Not just the drug thing,” said Matthews. “. . .recreation is another thing. We should be talking about that, too!”
Second, give credit to Marx for bringing forward the other issue.
“If we can get a name where this is a place not to sell drugs and you’ll get caught, it’s worth it,” said Marx.
Right! There is tremendous value in that. With a little promotion, this action can be marketed as a community where efforts are being made to stop the drug trade. Not everyone does this.
It is ridiculous to suggest the enhanced policing will stop the local drug trade. As Randy Ehman says, as soon as one is arrested, there will be another to take its place.
But we can’t fold up the tent and admit defeat. Efforts – no matter how futile they may seem to some – must be applauded and they must be supported. There is tremendous value in that!
The war on drugs is alive and well!
Home
Next >
|
