Pubdate: Wed, 11 Dec 2002
Source: National Post (Canada)
Copyright: 2002 Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nationalpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/286
Author: David Keeling
Note: Headline by newshawk

DECRIMINALIZE MARIJUANA

It is encouraging to learn that, after decades of ad nauseam debate, our 
Justice Minister has declared his intention to decriminalize the 
cultivation and possession of small amounts of marijuana. I would encourage 
members of the Canadian Police Association to examine the original 
justification for marijuana prohibition before trashing the pending 
legislation.

Most of the youthful fascination with pot originates with its illegality. 
The suggestion that marijuana is a "gateway drug" is simply getting old, as 
many would say alcohol is the real gateway drug. Adolescents have an 
irresistible desire to experiment with naughty things, and by doing so help 
those who make it a business to satisfy such cravings enjoy a lavish lifestyle.

The current law is significantly more detrimental to young minds than the 
substance is. Decriminalization of pot is by far the most efficient method 
of ridding Canadians of the "dealers" whose profits are guaranteed under 
the current law, and of reducing the risk to youth of being exposed to 
other drugs which are marketed by the same entrepreneurs.

David Keeling, Edmonton.
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MAP posted-by: Alex