Ravings by Christopher Dalton “Homeless” June 5th 2014

We moved to a condo a few years ago here in Victoria, thinking that the convenience of owning downtown would make the change worthwhile. We finally would be able to walk to our favourite restaurants without the drudgery of the “Designated Driver” routine.

The first shock was when our car insurance went up as it was “adjusted”  for living in a high risk area due to crime. “Hang on”, I said, “Our car is in secure underground parking.” It made no difference as statistics show otherwise. Sure enough it was not very long until our secure parking had its first break-in. “Drugs” said the bored policeman. I guess that is the only explanation that is needed in these cases

Then the ubiquitous street people began to make themselves felt. Every morning as we went for our walk downtown, the same ten men with their caps out would be standing at their spots, with their practiced downtrodden looks. At first we like most people gave generously as they appeared to have been poor souls who had fallen through the cracks of society. Then we began to notice new tattoos down their arms in colour, and expensive mobile phones . They smoked constantly and they parked over behind the legislature with disabled cards in their car windows. When I mentioned this to a city councillor , she simply said that it was far less than it used to be.

Anyone who lives downtown knows the city is in trouble. We need a little tough love I am afraid but it won’t come from these leaders. Those who need help must be given it as that is one of the reasons we pay taxes, but those who take advantage of the system and abuse it, must be discouraged. In other words, instead of waiting till every corner is teeming with beggars, we must be pro-active. The “Means Test” should be implemented. Harsh perhaps, but this what happens when we do nothing.

I would much rather look after the struggling single mothers of this world who are trying to make a go of it, than a young man sitting under a “help wanted” sign with his hand out.

By the way, the Major thinks I have become too mean spirited in my ravings. I will try and tone it down a bit. Sorry.