Re: “No easy fix for Vancouver's addiction crisis, but Swiss model worth examining,” Aug. 27.
Wow, that’s some out of line “opinion” from Mike Klassen about Mayor Stewart showing little interest in the drug crisis in Vancouver. I recall that the drug overdose crisis was the FIRST issue that Kennedy Stewart took as a newly elected mayor, after his inauguration. He immediately formed an emergency task force on overdoses and made sure its report to city council was delivered within six weeks. It was unanimously approved by city council. It included bold initiatives including calling for a safe supply so people who use drugs are not left to the toxic and dangerous drug market. I further recall a follow-up report to council, just recently, with the mayor again leading the call for action by all levels of government.
Klassen’s opinion and facts are completely incorrect. He should check the record and re-write his column. Klassen is also incorrect in his assertions about Oppenheimer Park and housing. I have followed numerous stories in the media where the mayor has outlined his actions on homelessness and the need help people in very difficult circumstances. Come on, Mike, keep a lid on your unfair partisan assertions — they are biased and not based in fact.
Libby Davies, former MP and Vancouver city councillor
