 André Rouvoet, Dutch vice-Prime MinisterAndré Rouvoet, Dutch vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Youth and Family, officially opened the 2007 ISAAC conference with the following words:'Many of you do not have the benefit of the facilities you see here at De Hoop. You may only have small, less well-equipped premises with no water and electricity. However, such working environments do not make the essence of the care you provide to people who are addicted any less important than the assistance provided here.' 'It is important for most people with an addiction to know that someone is on hand to offer help when needed, someone who makes it clear that they are willing and able to assist, someone who, despite everything, still believes that everyone is valuable in God's eyes. This is the role you play. You are there to show addicts that they are not alone and that everyone can find the strength to overcome their addiction.' 'You have come to the Netherlands from all over the world to encourage and learn from each other. I'm certain you will return home enlightened and enriched. However, something that is equally as important is that you have this opportunity to encourage each other to carry on the good work you are already doing. I hope that you can learn a great deal from each other's experiences and that together you can find out how local communities and churches can support addicts and help them kick their habits. You are not put off by the phenomenon of addiction or by the misery associated with it. You do not judge, you help. You have the capacity to see the person behind the problem, just as Jesus did. Above all, you give hope to people all around the world.' 'I am sure this conference will be a resounding success and I wish you every success with your work back home.' |
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