PAGC Officials Slam Opponents Of Detox Centre

PAGC Officials Slam Opponents Of Detox Centre

Tuesday, May 08, 2007 at 14:27

The Prince Albert Grand Council says “race-based lobbying is not ethical or acceptable” — in the wake of another setback for its proposed youth detox centre.

It is responding to a binding referendum held in Birch Hills recently that saw town residents vote against having the youth addictions treatment facility built there.

In a press release issued yesterday, the grand council says certain individuals who work in public service organizations continue to publicly communicate non-factual information about the proposal.

PAGC vice-chief Ed Henderson says the facility will assist any youth with addictions problems, regardless of race.

Henderson also says it’s easy for opponents to say “no” and “not in our backyard” — and challenges them to provide a solution.

Grand Chief Ron Michel calls the referendum result “frustrating and disappointing”.

The PAGC says it has been approached by other municipalities that are interested in being a host site for the centre — including the City of Prince Albert.