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We have a role to play and can’t be all things to all people. We are here to enforce the law

The goal of opening an overdose prevention site is to cut down on overdoses, dispose of needles properly and make available community connections for those wishing to overcome their drug addictions, said Patrick Brown, executive director for the community health centre.

The proposed location for the site would be part of a building already occupied by Street Health in the 700 block of Pelissier Street.

A local addict standing near the proposed Pelissier Street site on Friday said he would use the safe injection service if it was provided.

George Montpetit, 33, a user of crystal meth, said he has overdosed in his apartment and watched friends overdose. He has seen others burn themselves badly while attempting to use a blow torch to smoke meth.

“I do meth and marijuana,” he said. “It got me off crack.

“If I had to, I would come here. It’s safer than the streets.”

Photo by Dax Melmer / Windsor Star

The joint application by the local agencies is one of 16 across Ontario. A ministry decision is not expected until some time after the June 7 provincial election. If approved, it would initially be for a six-month period.

Frederick said local police agencies were never consulted before the application was submitted by the two organizations.

“That did not happen. Not just police, but neighbourhoods should have been consulted first and allowed to provide input.”

Drug addictions create a spinoff industry of criminal behaviour that can include thefts, break and enter, prostitution and dealing the drugs themselves, Frederick said.