Safe, clean premises
One of the commission’s more controversial suggestions, is to look into providing “consumption rooms” where addicts could take drugs at clinics. The report notes the success of such schemes overseas, adding: “The commission believes that, where it is not possible to stop users from taking risks, it is better that they have access to safe, clean premises, rather than to administer drugs on the streets or in residential settings.” The panel agreed that the move would be controversial as it involves “the toleration by health workers of the use of illegal drugs”. However, Ms McKenzie, added: “If people are going to take heroin they are going to take heroin. They already go to these centres for clean needles so this isn’t as radical as it may sound.” Mr Trace added that the proposal would also give the authorities a chance to offer preventative services to addicts.
