Chris Clegg
Editor, South Peace News
The Driftpile First Nation band council’s decision to submit to voluntary drug testing is certainly a step in the right direction.

There is nothing negative about the show of faith and trust council is trying to build and accomplish with its membership.

There is also nothing to hint in any way that council is suggesting any former band councillor or chief was “getting high” while serving.

“We’re trying to set new standards,” says Chief Dwayne Laboucan.

“We’re looking to lead by example,” says Councillor Starr Sasakamoose. “If [membership and youth] see the leaders doing this, they will tell their friends.”

Council was elected to a two-year term Dec. 19 and unanimously agreed to the tests, which were done in Slave Lake. All members passed clean after being tested for cocaine, Phencyclidine [angel dust], MDMA [ecstacy], THC [marijuana], AMP [amphetamines], and opium.

In the most perfect world possible, drug testing would be at random, without councillors knowing when they would be tested. It should not in any way deter or undermine what the Driftpile band council is trying to accomplish.

Some people have already told me that all councils should be subject to tests. I wouldn’t want to open that door, because I believe there is no rampant use of drugs among our politicians at the town, county, First Nations or Metis communities.

Of course, there is always the argument that if you’re clean, why oppose testing? While the argument has merit, I’ll leave that for you to decide.

What is impressive is that a band council decided to take a step forward – and it is a step forward – in leading the way. They did not have to submit to testing, but did so to show leadership.

The drug problem in the region is not limited to First Nations reserves or Metis settlements. It exists in the streets and homes in High Prairie and the county. To suggest so is being naïve at best.

So why not take the first step and voluntarily submit? Why not stick your necks out in full view in front of the community? Why not show the membership [voters] you are clean?

Laboucan says the decision was also made to gain the trust of membership and to serve as role models for youth. Plans will be made to make drug testing annual.

Who knows? Maybe future drug tests will be at random. Maybe they will be every six months instead of one year. Perhaps the band membership by vote will endorse more stringent drug testing. All of that is in the future.

For now, to suggest the band council is not sincere in its actions is ludicrous. They are to be commended and applauded for taking the steps they did.