Pubdate: Thu, 19 Dec 2002 Source: Kitchener-Waterloo Record (CN ON) Copyright: 2002 Kitchener-Waterloo Record Contact: http://www.therecord.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/225 Author: Cindy Matthews Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) KEEP MARIJUANA ILLEGAL I do not believe that legalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana will improve society. The government supports legalization because the courts are "filled" with people charged with simple possession. This evidently costs taxpayers too much money. So following this logic, should the government also justify legalizing shoplifting of "small amounts" of merchandise? The effects of marijuana use have been downplayed in the media. A few members of federal government have disclosed using this drug when they were younger. The suggestion being made is that these members are now "successful," contributing members of society. Of course, that's debatable. While comparing former forms of marijuana with those currently available, it's important to realize that the active ingredient that gives marijuana its effect is more concentrated than it was 20 to 30 years ago, thanks to the processes involved in hydroponic growth operations. Are we, as a society, managing to effectively control people who choose to irresponsibly use alcohol and then drive? I do not believe we have capably controlled drunk driving issues very well yet. So does it make sense to introduce another "legally possessed" substance for people to consume with the government's consent? I do not wish to compete for busy road space with mellowed-out, sleepy drivers, whose reactions will certainly be impaired. As for the busy courts argument, I submit that we would have busier courts due to "impairment from marijuana" charges. Someone would need to create a machine (similar to a breathalyser) to determine the impairment. Where are the cost savings? Finally, it is interesting to note that when our society feels terrorized by suspicious actions of people, our government suggests leniency with a substance that allows us to retreat into ourselves. I am uncomfortable with a government that would promote use of a drug to make people "feel better." Cindy Matthews - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake