Pubdate: Wed, 21 May 2003 Source: Chatham This Week (CN ON) Copyright: 2003 Bowes Publishers Limited Contact: http://www.bowesnet.com/ctw/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/719 Author: Jerry Tillema Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) NOT A GOOD IDEA Dear editor: Re: The proposal to decriminalize marijuana for non-medical use. Evidence shows the following about marijuana: 1. It's addictive and can lead to other illegal drug use. 2. It's more harmful than tobacco. 3. It has cancer-causing capacity. 4. It retards the normal growth of brain cells. 5. It harms reproductive eggs in women. 6. It damages the immune system. 7. It impairs good judgment. 8. It raises the risk of accidental death on roadways. 9. It is often the cause of societal, physiological, academic and family problems, many times at the expense of the taxpayer. The decriminalization of marijuana will inevitably lead to more access and use. This must be prevented to protect the citizens of our country. Police departments across Canada oppose the decriminalization of this drug. Do what you can, as soon as possible, to stop the proposal to decriminalize marijuana. Jerry Tillema, Chatham - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl