Pubdate: Mon, 29 Jul 2013
Source: Moose Jaw Times-Herald (CN SN)
Copyright: 2013 The Moose Jaw Times-Herald Group Inc.
Contact:  http://www.mjtimes.sk.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2154

STIRRING THE POLITICAL POT

To legalize or not to legalize? That is the question. Last week it was
reported in the Vancouver Sun that Liberal Party of Canada leader,
Justin Trudeau, told a group of reporters his thinking has "evolved"
when it comes to pot laws.

Trudeau said decriminalization is a "great first step" to remove the
criminal penalties associated with the drug. However, he adds, the
only way to ensure it doesn't make its way into the hands of children
and minors is through legalization and regulation.

"In many cases, it's more difficult for young people to get their
hands on cigarettes than it is to get their hands on weed.

"Once we regulate it, and require ID to be shown before anyone can buy
it with proof of age, we are actually putting a better control on it."

Trudeau said the current approach to drugs is clearly not working and
it is time look at other options.

He said he's not arguing the fact that marijuana is not "great" for
you, but said many studies have shown it is no worse than cigarettes
or alcohol.

The question now is, is Trudeau looking out for the best interest of
Canadians when it comes to the legalization of marijuana, or is he
just looking to impress his younger supporters?

The Conservative party said in a response to Trudeau's comments that
it feels this is just another indication that the young politician
doesn't have the judgment of a prime minister.

In a jab at the Conservatives, Trudeau said the Conservative party
likes to "base their approach on ideology and fear.

I prefer to base my approach on evidence and best practices and I
think that's what Canadians will respond to."

Whether or not Trudeau has the makings to sit in Canada's highest
political seat is still unknown, however the fact that he is young,
charismatic and taking on issues that are reaching young
disenfranchised Canadians and future voters could be deemed a smart
move on his part.

Already living up to the "celebrity" persona that was generated during
his campaign for Liberal party leader, the young Trudeau has a
following of open minded youth, liberal thinking young adults and baby
boomers who were fans of his father, showing their support for both
Trudeau the politician and Trudeau the up-and-coming celebrity.

Although the legalization of marijuana should not be considered a key
issue in the next election, it is a great issue to take cause with
when trying to garner support from a certain demographic of voters,
while at the same time ruffling enough feathers to gain a little publicity.

There is a reason these ideas were shared while visiting the west
coast province.

The marijuana debate is one that has been going on in North America
for decades and a resolution doesn't seem to be on the horizon.

Whether it was strategy or policy that brought on this new view on
pot, Trudeau has shown his father's flare for controversy and has
Canadians talking.
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MAP posted-by: Matt