Pubdate: Wed, 31 Aug 2005
Source: Nanton News (CN AB)
Copyright: 2005 Nanton News
Contact:  http://www.nantonnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3200
Author: Ian Watson

TAKING METH SERIOUSLY

In recent weeks we have heard much of the deadly addictive effect of the
drug known as crystal meth. The federal government actually went as far as
to increase the maximum penalty for manufacturing, trafficking and
distribution of this wickedly addictive poison.

That said, shortly afterwards, a senior judge in Calgary was interviewed on
TV and he stated that he doubted if anyone would receive the recommended
penalty of life imprisonment because of certain restrictions created by
Canada's Human Rights legislation and other laws on the books.

He suggested that the electorate prevail upon their members of parliament to
ensure the necessary changes to the Human Rights Act be made. Personally I
would rather see the minimum sentence increased to 10 years with no
opportunity for early parole. For those who are not aware of the properties
of Crystal Meth, it produces an instant high which makes the desire for more
when the user comes down from the clouds, with the result that we are now
witnessing crack cocaine being spiked with crystal meth creating an even
deadlier result on the addict.

Children as young as ten and twelve years of age are being targeted.

The authorities inform us that once a person is hooked on this drug their
life expectancy is a miserable seven years with violence and crime
associated with it to feed the habit.

I regard this as a much more serious matter than alcohol, regardless of the
opinions of others.

Ian Watson,

Nanton
- ---
MAP posted-by: Josh