counsellors tried to convince St. George's residents to accept a FOCUS supportive residency programme on Barry's Road.

Despite Mayor Henry Hayward's attempts to curb lengthy speeches, those involved with drug rehabilitation and treatment criticised all who opposed the placement of the controversial facility, called Jerry's House.

But FOCUS executives, including CEO Sandy Butterfield, were in turn blasted by the Committee for Concerned Residents (CCR), who oppose Jerry's House.

And the meeting was continually interrupted by walk-outs by CCR members who accused Mrs. Butterfield of "lying''.

But as more people testified, despite Mr. Hayward, those opposed to the facility grew quieter.

The CCR was soon isolated as few supporters spoke up and most sat near the back of the room.

CCR objected to the facility on five grounds and claimed that FOCUS's attempts to establish Jerry's House were suspicious.

The organisation claimed the location of the project was inappropriate because the St. George's Police station was moving to Southside.

Tempers flare at meeting They also said current FOCUS facilities are run with little security, FOCUS clients include addicts who are "hard core criminals'' and that FOCUS had tried to implement this facility "through stealth''.

CCR spokesperson Gary Brangman was applauded when he levelled these and other objections at the meeting.

And Mrs. Butterfield was initially hassled by comments like "gimme a break''.

The topic of religion was raised by Jerry's House supporters, calling on Christians to listen to the teaching of Christ.

One man identified only as Raymond said: "I'm here to tell you if you believe in Christ, don't be hypocrites.

"I used to be a drug addict. I was making myself poor and making someone rich, who doesn't even like me. They teach you that sort of thing in FOCUS,'' he added.

Mrs. Butterfield invited questions but within minutes her supporters were testifying about their own success story against drug addiction.

In a letter addressed to St. George's residents, FOCUS listed the eligibility criteria for patients prior to entering Jerry's House.

They must complete a substance abuse programme, be 18 years-old, demonstrate a willingness to work, willingness to pay rent, provide proof of abstinence for 90 days and have a letter of recommendation from the treatment programme.

The letter said: "Invariably, participants learn that if they stay clean of drugs and alcohol, they can live in a comfortably furnished home environment.'' FOCUS is a free counselling service and registered charity with programmes endorsed by the National Drug Commission (NDC) and funded by The Council Partners Charitable Trust and NDC.

Not welcome: Residents have expressed outrage at the planned FOCUS residency facility on Barry Road.