Laurels & Darts

Every Saturday in the T.O. Star, in the editorial section, they always list two laurels or darts. It's their version of a shout out to someone who's done something really great or done something really stupid. This past weekend the Star posted double laurels and in both cases they speak directly to mental health issues in this country. So I thought it'd be appropriate to tell you who was graced by these most recent laurels.

First, to Michael Kirby. You may recognize his name. He chaired the Kirby Commission and is in my opinion, one of the most important players in the game of reformation of the mental health system all across this country. Currently Mr. Kirby chairs the National Commission on Mental Health. He is now launching a new charitable organization to raise research dollars for illnesses like depression through what he hopes will become "an army of volunteers" across the country.

The second laurel goes to, believe it or not, the Saskatchewan Police Commission. Yup, you read that right, the Saskatchewan Police Commission. Why? For exercising appropriate caution in making a decision about authorizing the use of tasers by regular municipal police officers, at least for now. The Commission, taking into consideration the recent death of a 17 year old boy involving a taser incident, wants more information on conducted-energy weapons before making a decision. My hats off to the Commission for at least demonstrating the need to be well informed about this particular issue.