Debates of October 29, 2004 (day 31)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we are well aware the toll that addiction to alcohol, drugs and gambling is having on our people and our society. The problem is getting worse every day, Mr. Speaker. We are also aware that the toxicity of the new drugs, especially crack cocaine on the street, is getting more intense and very unforgiving to those who come in touch with it. There is almost no second chance, Mr. Speaker. I believe we are also aware, Mr. Speaker, that we need an agreement that so much needs to be done by this government if we are ever to make inroads into what we are facing. Otherwise, I don’t believe it will be too long before this monster destroys most of our social, political, educational, and correctional infrastructures at a cost that no government can bear.

Mr. Speaker, a couple of weeks ago, I attended an unveiling ceremony of the new drinking and driving legislation sponsored by the Minister of Transportation. One phrase that struck me there was coroner Percy Kinney’s description of alcohol addiction as a slow-motion, silent killer. Mr. Speaker, I believe we are now dealing with a bundle of slow-motion silent killers in addictions. We have a monstrous and multi-pronged addiction in alcohol, drugs, and gambling that our people are battling with. This government has to become a much stronger partner with the service providers and those who are suffering from these addictions.

Mr. Speaker, the third week of November is designated as National Addictions Awareness Week. The theme is to keep the circle strong. I have placed a beautiful hand-beaded ribbon on each Member’s desk this morning. These ribbons are made and designed by Nechi Institute in Edmonton. I am hoping that the Members will either wear it or keep it close to them to remind us of the task at hand that we need to deal with and to really wrestle the monster down for the good of our territory and for our people who are suffering. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause