Pubdate: Sun, 30 May 2004
Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Copyright: 2004, Canoe Limited Partnership.
Contact:  http://www.fyiedmonton.com/htdocs/edmsun.shtml
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/135
Author: Sun Media
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmjcn.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal - Canada)

NDP COULD PAY FOR POT

TORONTO -- An NDP pharmacare program could pay for prescribed pot, Jack 
Layton suggested yesterday. The NDP leader said marijuana that's required 
as medication to help people suffering from AIDS, cancer and other serious 
illnesses might be eligible under his proposed national drug program.

"It might fit. That's going to have to be a decision made as we look at the 
particular medications in consultation with the medical profession," he 
said. "I've drawn a lot of inspiration from those who are tackling 
catastrophic illnesses and who are seeking the support for medical use."

Layton's proposed pharmacare program would be phased in, initially helping 
low-income families or those saddled with massive drug bills. His plan also 
calls for cutting drug costs through a bulk-buying program.

"The whole approach has been to help people who are struggling with 
illness, and the medicinal use (of marijuana) is something a lot of people 
are supporting across the country," he said.

NDP MP Libby Davies said pot should be treated just like any other medicine 
under the pharmacare plan.
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