Pubdate: Thu, 05 Jun 2003
Source: Whistler Question (CN BC)
Copyright: 2003, Whistler Printing & Publishing Ltd.
Contact:  http://www.whistlerquestion.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1034
Author:  Steven Hill
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

RCMP SAY LAW WOULD FREE UP POLICE TIME

Legislation proposed last week by Justice Minister Martin Cauchon to 
decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana, may just free some 
time for local law enforcers, according to police officials.

The legislation, if passed, would decriminalize possession of up to 15 
grams of pot, making it a ticketable offense rather than something that 
could give users a criminal record.

However, the new law also proposes stiffer sentences for growers and 
dealers of marijuana.

The government has pledged $250 million for a five-year education and 
enforcement program to alleviate fears that the 'decriminalization' would 
increase pot use in Canada.

"Let me be very clear. We do not want Canadians using marijuana," said 
Health Minister Anne McLellan. "Make no mistake, marijuana is harmful and 
it will remain illegal."

Fines for possession of small amounts of weed would garner offenders fines 
of $150 to $400 for adults, and $100 to $250 for teens.

Staff Sergeant Hilton Haider of the Whistler RCMP detachment said the 
proposed legislation would free up some manpower usually busy with 
paperwork resulting from arrests for small amounts of marijuana.

"It usually takes about four to six hours to complete the process once we 
bring someone in for possession," he said. "If we can simply hand out a 
ticket, then we can have more members out patrolling the Village."

The RCMP have supported the initiative at the federal level.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom