Pubdate: Sat, 02 Jun 2007
Source: Edmonton Journal (CN AB)
Copyright: 2007 The Edmonton Journal
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/edmonton/edmontonjournal/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/134
Author: Michael Pearce
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hr.htm (Harm Reduction)

TREAT DRUGS LIKE BOOZE

Stephan Harper cannot win with the present drug-prohibition system 
that the U.S. government demands of us.

But what are the alternatives? This is a reasonable question. Just 
because the state can't beat drug cartels doesn't mean it should join them.

The Journal's editorial pointed out the benefits of harm reduction 
with regard to Vancouver's Insite program, which has helped 7,000 
individuals or families.

Canada is and always has been a more compassionate society.

I suggest we legalize all drugs. Tax and regulate them, as we do 
cigarettes and alcohol.

This would free millions in cash to pay for treatment, social 
programs, housing, education, policing and more.

This simple step would cut off the revenue source for criminals.

Michael Pearce,

St-Mathieu de Beloeil, Que. 
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman