Pubdate: Mon, 17 Oct 2016
Source: Sudbury Star (CN ON)
Copyright: 2016 Osprey Media
Contact: http://www.thesudburystar.com/letters
Website: http://www.thesudburystar.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/608
Author: Mary Katherine Keown
Page: A2

READERS DIVIDED ON POT LEGALIZATION

Weed. Pot. Mary Jane. Marijuana has been known by many nicknames, and
as the government of Canada considers legalization, The Sudbury Star
asked: Do you think it should be legalized in the country?

A little more than half The Star's readers - 51 per cent (210 votes) -
said sure, legalize the green, while 34 per cent of respondents said
no. Thirteen per cent of people voted for decriminalization, not
legalization, and eight voters (two per cent) said they were unsure
what should happen.

Of those who called into the poll line, only one person favoured
legalization -- with a catch.

"I would say yes, as long as there are similar, parallel rules in
place as for alcohol and tobacco," the gentleman said.

Five of six callers did not favour legalization. Many cited concerns
regarding driving while under the influence of drugs, while one woman
brought up the impact of smoke on young lungs.

"No, I don't think marijuana should be legalized," she said. "It's
still a drug and we're trying to convince people to stop smoking. ...
What about marijuana smoke? Also, they'll be driving under the
influence," she said, which could cause more injuries and fatalities
on provincial roads.

Her sentiments were reiterated by other callers.

"There are enough crazy drivers already on the road," one lady said.
"No marijuana, no legalization."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also got called out for his work in
legalizing the drug.

"No, we have a serious problem with drunken and distracted drivers,
now we'll have to contend with drug-impaired drivers," one gentleman
said. "Thank you Mr. Trudeau for looking after our safety, my family
really appreciates your position on marijuana."

"Definitely not. Don't we have enough problems?" another gentleman
asked, rather matter-of-factly.
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MAP posted-by: Matt