Pubdate: Sun, 21 Aug 2011
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2011 Times Colonist
Contact: http://www2.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/letters.html
Website: http://www.timescolonist.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Geoffrey Vale

LEGALIZE DRUGS TO CUT VIOLENCE

It seems only a matter of time before more innocent bystanders are
killed in a gangland shooting.

Alcohol prohibition in the U.S. years ago caused gangland wars and
shootings to a huge degree. The cost in human lives and money spent on
police and court time was huge. In the end, prohibition was ended by
the government.

Now we have a similar problem, similar gang shootings and similar
costs to the taxpayers. Unfortunately, the war against drugs is being
lost worldwide. Their import, by air, tunnels and even submarines is
increasing, despite all the efforts of the authorities.

Perhaps the logical solution is to declare all drugs legal, and bring
the importation and selling under government control. This would
remove the profit made by gangs, who would then lose interest in their
control.

Undoubtedly, many persons will use these harmful substances. They must
be made aware that the effects of such stupid acts will be their
responsibility. The government will not be responsible or pay for 
treatments.

It's time that people everywhere learn that they, and they alone, are
responsible for their actions.

Geoffrey Vale

Mill Bay
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MAP posted-by: Matt