Calling Gordon Campbell's government hypocritical would be generous. The timing of this proposed bill allowing police to force homeless into shelters “in extreme weather conditions” is beyond laughable [“Criminalizing the homeless”, September 24–October 1]. Campbell is in his third term and suddenly his government cares about the homeless? Oh, yeah, the Olympics are coming. I haven't heard a word about whether homeless in Prince George, Kelowna, Kamloops—where weather conditions get much more extreme than Vancouver—will also be forced into shelters.

If this bill does become law, there could be a silver lining, though. Where will they shelter all the homeless? Will they pick and choose some and “make examples” of others? What if they don't “get” all the homeless? How will they ensure safety in these shelters? How will they ensure that contagious diseases—H1N1, anyone?—won't be an issue in the shelters?

Truly helping the approximately 3,000 homeless in Vancouver through medical and psychological help, counselling for mental illness and substance abuse, education, and career counselling would have cost less than your Games. Oh, that's right, the Liberals don't spend public funds.

> Gregoire Savoie / Vancouver