Pubdate: Fri, 19 Jul 2002
Source: Orillia Today (CN ON)
Copyright: 2002, Metroland Printing, Publishing and Distributing
Contact:  http://www.simcoe.com/sc/orillia/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1508
Author: Torstar News Service

POT LAW CHANGES PONDERED

Canada may follow Britain's lead in decriminalizing marijuana use by making 
simple possession of small amounts of pot a ticketing offence, said Justice 
Minister Martin Cauchon.

"We're not talking about making it legal. We're talking about the 
possibility of moving ahead with what we call the decriminalization of 
that," said Cauchon.

"It would still be illegal. It wouldn't be criminal, of course; but it 
would still be illegal. (The law would be) easier to apply. You would get a 
contravention (ticket) and you would have to pay something. I guess we 
would be maybe more effective, more efficient in proceeding that way," he 
said in response to reporters' questions after a cabinet committee meeting.

In one of the strongest statements by a minister of this government, 
Cauchon expressed doubts about the effectiveness of the current laws.

He noted the law makes drug possession a crime, and results in a criminal 
record - sometimes jail - for convicted persons. Criminal records can often 
lead to a person being barred from professional certification, or from 
travel to the U.S. "Very often the legislation will simply not be applied," 
depending on where you live across Canada, said Cauchon.

Cauchon said he will consult with the Senate and Commons committees and the 
public before any changes are made.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens