DRUG TESTS SET FOR SOME WELFARE RECIPIENTS

TORONTO - Dramatically brandishing handfuls of syringes, Ontario's social
services minister on Tuesday formally announced the province's plan to
force drug tests and treatment on some welfare recipients.

John Baird said that too many people are "shooting their welfare cheques up
their arm," although he acknowledges he has no firm statistics. He said
estimates range from four to ten per cent of recipients.

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association says if the government uses a
urine test already ruled illegal by the courts in some circumstances it
will consider a court challenge.