I have noted the letters with respect to the so-called homelessness problem, and from my observations the problem is basically the lack of any willingness on the part of the majority of these “homeless” to make any real effort to work or give up their drug and/or alcohol addiction.
Their only expectation is that the rest of us will continue to fund their wishes. This is clearly proven by the condition in which they have left the properties where they were camping. In past generations, there was what was called “relief,” which meant that those seeking assistance did some work in exchange for assistance. The positive aspect is clear as they learned self-respect in addition to realizing the rest of society was not responsible for maintaining their lifestyle.
Many champions of their cause have been, and may well continue to be, in the drug business and are more than willing to accept what is in essence public money in exchange for said drugs. You can witness the number of persons who smoke heavily around the food bank and yet continue to expect the rest of us to fund their nicotine habit by providing donations to the food bank.
The attitude of the Pivot Legal Society is nothing less than disgusting. They seem to want to drain taxpayers and encourage the so-called homeless rather than directing these people to find and accept work.
There is no question that more needs to be done, but this requires cooperation and work on both sides. The time is now for the homeless to cease simply standing by with their hands held out, but to seek honest treatment to overcome their addictions and do some honest work, thus making themselves positive members of society.
The same applies to drug addicts. Instead of providing more so-called safe injection sites, addicts should be forced, if necessary, into treatment centres. Further, drug dealers should receive a minimum of 10 years without parole with all assets they might have being forfeited to the Crown.
Frank Wirrell