Tanis Dagert says that the kiosks are an invaluable resource to the community, and that it enables anyone to have access to clean, life saving supplies.
Tanis Dagert with the Nanaimo Community Action Team says she hopes when the province conducts its review it will talk with people who use and benefit from the machines, not just those who are against them. B.C Premier David Eby is ordering a review of a program that dispenses free drug paraphernalia and testing kits from hospital vending machines.
The vending machine allows people to receive free harm reduction supplies, by simply pushing a few buttons. Items include naloxene kits, safe sex kits and drug testing supplies, but also bubble pipes and snorting devices. "Now you have absolutely no person you're connecting with. It's just here. Take the paraphernalia, and just go and do your thing."
She says programs like the vending machines help keep people safe — and that it's no different than wearing a helmet while riding a bike."I'm a little bit distressed that it's being used as a lightning rod issue to stir up angst in the community when really it's providing life-saving service," she said.
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