The Editor,
Re. “Should be able to light up in parks,” (Letters, The Tri-City News, Oct. 4).
I had to read Robert Smith’s letter three times and still couldn’t believe what I was reading. Mr. Smith is criticizing Port Coquitlam Coun. Brad West’s proposal to ban smoking in playgrounds and parks because it would “limit our rights as smokers.”
Well, as a mother of two kids who’ve been exposed to second-hand smoke while playing at Lions Park, what about the rights of my two young children? What about the rights of all of us who don’t want to be exposed to the dangerous health effects of second-hand smoke while enjoying community amenities?
Nobody is saying smokers can’t be in parks. You’ll just have to wait until your in your car or home before lighting up.
I support West’s proposal 100% and thank him for bringing it forward. It’s about time that PoCo kids and residents were protected from second-hand smoke.
It’s 2017. Let’s keep up with other cities who have already done it.
Valerie Harris
Port Coquitlam
The Editor
Robert Smith in his letter cites his right to smoke in public parks because he pays his taxes. Those same taxes may allow us to drive on the roads but rules say we drive on the right and not the left and why? To prevent bad things from happening.
Smoking is a bad thing. It is a major factor in hospital costs. Kids breathe the stuff in but not only that, they adopt the behaviour in many cases.
Go to any seat of learning and you will see the number of younger adults that smoke. Where do they get the idea that it’s OK to do so? From adults.
So Robert, I’m sorry but I’m one that supports the ban. I understand the addiction but you’ll have to learn to deal with it at home.
Jim Cowan
Coquitlam
