Pubdate: Fri, 18 Dec 2015
Source: Ottawa Citizen (CN ON)
Copyright: 2015 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact:  http://www.ottawacitizen.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/326
Author: Harvey Davey
Page: C4
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v15/n702/a07.html

POT: LEGALIZATION VERSUS PROHIBITION

Re: Don't hold your breath for legal marijuana, Dec. 16. Since 1923, 
marijuana has been an illegal drug in Canada, and during the time 
since its prohibition, it has been sold illegally. No one denies that 
prohibition has failed to prevent its sale and use.

Those who accept the failure are looking for ways to make its use 
safer. They want to reduce the harm being done by abuse. Education 
and regulation are now being attempted in some jurisdictions. There 
are even those who think it may raise government revenue. It may. It 
will take time to work out the best tools for educating and 
regulating use, and also how to deal better with abuse.

It is time to abandon prohibition and work on solutions. That is what 
I believe Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has asked his justice minister to do.

When I was a teacher, it was easier for a minor to get marijuana than 
tobacco. As far as I know, it still is. We are not protecting our 
children. The risks of legalization cannot be worse than the results 
of prohibition.

Harvey Davey, Ottawa
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom