Pubdate: Sun, 02 Nov 2003 Source: Ottawa Sun (CN ON) Copyright: 2003, Canoe Limited Partnership Contact: http://www.fyiottawa.com/ottsun.shtml Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/329 Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1693/a03.html Author: Rhys Boswarva Note: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor, headline by newshawk Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) A MATTER OF FAIR TREATMENT RE "LETTERS to the Editor," by Bill Kushniryk (Oct. 30): Most cannabis users are aware of the dangers of using the drug. What they are saying is that those dangers are no worse (if not less) than the dangers of alcohol use. Why should cannabis not be just as legal as alcohol? It's simply a matter of fair treatment for those who prefer one over the other. And if your concern is driving, then remember we didn't always have the roadside breath test and alcohol was still legal. Also, realize that there is nothing preventing people from driving while under the influence of cannabis now. Legalizing it won't change that, but it will allow for more open counselling and campaigning to educate people on the dangers of driving while under the influence of cannabis. It might also encourage more research into a roadside test for cannabis. And then there's the tax-grab possibilities ... Rhys Boswarva, Ottawa (The first thing they'll go after) - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl