It all began in moment of great triumph and political courage. Then there were complications: fierce opposition in the parliament including from the Australian prime minister John Howard, interference by the Vatican and the United Nations International Narcotics Control Board, heated community debate and a court action. Finally, in May 2001, Australia's first legally sanctioned medically supervised injecting centre opened with the challenge to save the lives of injecting drug users.In the Eye of the Needle traces the story of the centre's first 30 months and the battles to justify its existence. It introduces us to the harrowing world of injecting drug users, their tragedies and successes and the outstanding efforts of a group of health professionals dedicated to saving lives.Despite its success, the injecting centre continues to provoke debate. This is a story that will not go away. In the Eye of the Needle provides a unique insiders account of what continues to be one of the most controversial public health approaches of today.

About the Author
Dr Ingrid van Beek is the medical director of the Sydney medically supervised injecting centre. She is a graduate of the University of New South Wales and an internationally recognised authority in harm reduction.


Book Information
ISBN 9781741143812
Author Ingrid van Beek
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Allen & Unwin
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Weight(grams) 398g