Liberals ignoring concerns about decriminalizing pot On April 13, the Liberal government introduced legislation that would allow for the recreational use of marijuana for Canadians over the age of 18, and eliminate penalties for possession of marijuana (up to five grams) for those between the ages of 12 and 18. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government have repeated time and time again that the aim of this legislation is to protect our children and increase public safety. However, neither of these goals is accomplished with this legislation. This is not just my view. In a recent Angus Reid poll, approximately two in three Canadians (66 per cent) said they believe that this legislation fails to prevent young people from using marijuana more than they already do. [continues 456 words]
I would like to thank the New Hamburg Independent for writing that I am a "good representative" for the riding in your Oct. 15 editorial. I must, however, fill the gaps in on some other points presented. It was written that, "the Conservative measures to reduce youth crime would be more appealing if more social supports were in place to deal with the root of the problem." I agree wholeheartedly. Since the unfortunate death of one teen at the hands of another shortly after my first election, I have taken this issue to heart and pursued every opportunity to restore balance to our youth justice system. [continues 167 words]
