Pubdate: Mon, 18 Sep 2017
Source: Northern News (CN ON)
Copyright: 2017 Northern News
Contact: http://www.northernnews.ca/letters
Website: http://www.northernnews.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2315
Author: Brad Sherratt
Page: A1

MAYOR BACKS POT PLAN

Tony Antoniazzi supports province's stand on marijuana legislation

KIRKLAND LAKE - Kirkland Lake Mayor Tony Antoniazzi is in agreement
with the provincial government's proposed legisilation.

The Mayor stated "the province of Ontario has taken, the right, first
steps, as they presented their plan for the sale and distribution of
smoked or vaped recreational cannabis. It's a sensible and cautious
approach."

He adds "Ontarians have a good understanding and respect for our
province's liquor laws. Mirroring the sale of pot to the LCBO model is
a good first step. Going forward we could see the retail sale and
distribution of recreational cannabis extend out to the private
sector, just as we see today with liquor allowed to be sold at some
highway general stores along major routes."

He also pointed out municipalties will have some say in the
legislation.

"Discussions concerning revenue sharing with municipalities is on
going. I am pleased that municipalities will not be responsible for
the licensing of outlets. Municipalities will have a say regarding the
location of the outlets...ie..away from schools, playgrounds etc."

The Kathleen Wynne government, in a document officially titled
'Ontario's Safe and Sensible Framework to Federal Cannabis
Legislation,' outlines the way legalized recreational marijuana will
be sold in the province, and it's similar to the booze monopoly.

You will have to be at least 19 years of age to purchase marijuana;
you cannot possess marijuana if under 18.

You must buy from an LCBO-controlled outlet - one of up to 80 stores
in all of Ontario, or from an online channel that will deliver to the
door, provided someone can sign for the product.

You cannot buy edible marijuana products, like pot-laced candy, but
can make your own.

Read the full Ontario government cannabis regulation plan
here

You cannot buy pot and alcohol together in one LCBO
store.

You will only be able to use recreational cannabis in private
residences - not in any public space, workplace or motorized vehicle.

"Illegal" pot dispensaries remain illegal.

Ontario intends to launch 80 pot stores over the first year and up to
150 stores by 2020, according to the government.

- -with files from Antonella Artuso
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MAP posted-by: Matt