Pubdate: Thu, 28 Aug 2014
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2014 Times Colonist
Contact: http://www2.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/letters.html
Website: http://www.timescolonist.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Katie DeRosa
Page: A4

MINISTER MUM ON CHIEFS' BID TO TICKET FOR POT

Canada's public safety minister dodged questions about allowing 
police to issue tickets for simple marijuana possession, instead 
using the podium at the national police chiefs' conference Wednesday 
to slam Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau's pot policy.

"Police chiefs oppose legalization, doctors oppose legalization, but 
Mr. Trudeau wants to legalize marijuana?" said Steven Blaney, 
speaking at the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police conference 
in Victoria on Wednesday.

"We will continue to protect a safe environment for Canadians and 
especially for our youth."

In August 2013, the chiefs passed a resolution supporting a ticketing 
system for simple pot possession, similar to a violation ticket for 
having open alcohol. The association is not calling for the 
decriminalization or legalization of marijuana.

When asked if the Conservatives would consider a ticketing option, 
Blaney said: "We want to make sure our police officers have the tools 
necessary to apply the law of the land," and then reiterating his 
statement that studies have shown that marijuana has harmful health 
consequences for youth.

Trudeau has advocated for legalizing marijuana as a way to regulate 
it and take it out of the hands of organized crime.

Victoria Police Chief Frank Elsner said police officers need 
"different tools" for dealing with pot possession.

The association will continue to lobby for an added tier for dealing 
with marijuana offences, he said. "This is something we feel very 
passionate about. ... There has to be a balance."
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom