Pubdate: Wed, 15 Feb 2012
Source: Sooke News Mirror (CN BC)
Copyright: 2012 Sooke News Mirror
Contact:  http://www.sookenewsmirror.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2142
Author: Wayne Phillips
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v12/n115/a06.html
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v12/n115/a07.html
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v12/n123/a04.html

CANADA COULD LEAD THE WAY

While the Editorial: Legalization debate crucial of Feb. 8 provides 
many valid considerations, it misses the mark, however, when it makes 
legalization out to be about opinion; it is not.

Legalization is about the best course of action in order to prevent
the harms to youth and communities that currently exist because of
marijuana prohibition. It's about disrupting organized crime's cash
cow, reducing the violence associated with prohibition, and bringing a
substantial tax resource to government coffers.

Legalization is about education, harm reduction and removing barriers
to medical marijuana. It's about freeing up resources to better target
trans-border trafficking, gangs, meth labs, crime, etc., while
insuring rights, freedoms and regulated enterprise are guaranteed.

Legalization, regulation and taxation would be an economic boon while
providing the impetus to reconsider outdated U.N. protocols. Canada
would become a recognized international leader in progressive global
drug control strategy.

A brave new world awaits, providing Canada has the guts to
lead.

Wayne Phillips

Hamilton, Ontario
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MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.