Pubdate: Sat, 26 May 2001
Source: Otago Daily Times (New Zealand)
Copyright: Allied Press Limited, 2001
Contact:  http://www2.odt.co.nz
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/925
Author: NZPA

INQUIRY STARTING ON CANNABIS LAWS

Wellington: Parliament's select committee on health will start hearing 
submissions next week in an inquiry which could lead to the 
decriminalisation of cannabis.

A review of cannabis laws is scheduled during this term of Parliament, with 
decriminalising the drug the main option up for discussion.

To be caught with small amounts of cannabis would become a ticketing 
offence, like speeding.

The inquiry, which begins hearing submissions next Wednesday, is the first 
step in the process.

Green MP Nandor Tanczos, who wants the law changed, said in a statement he 
was relieved the long-awaited inquiry was finally starting.

"I am pleased that the committee can finally get to work on finding better 
ways to deal with the issue," he said.

"The law as it stands sees over half of the adult population breaking the 
law at one time or another.

"It is clear to anyone with an open mind that the current law is failing to 
reduce the abuse of cannabis and in fact may be encouraging it."

The Green Party will be among those delivering a submission to the inquiry 
during the public session which runs from 3pm until 10pm on Wednesday.

The terms of reference for the inquiry were: "To inquire into the most 
effective public health and health promotion strategies to minimise the use 
of and the harm associated with cannabis and consequently the most 
appropriate legal status of cannabis."
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart