Pubdate: Mon, 24 Apr 2017
Source: Montreal Gazette (CN QU)
Copyright: 2017 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact:  http://www.montrealgazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/274
Author: Glen K. Malfara
Page: A8

DON'T COMPLICATE LEGAL POT BUSINESS

Re: "City will ensure it gets share of taxes" (Montreal Gazette, April 20)

The ink is not even dry on the legislation to legalize marijuana and
already Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre has plans to demand his share. It
is time to send a clear message to all levels of government that we
are all adults and do not need advice from self-serving
politicians.

Let the government pass the legislation and then see how it is
received. I suggest using the restaurant model. A permit is issued to
sell the legal product and allowing the government to do spot
inspections, to ensure the vendor is in full compliance with the law.
Why Quebec has to complicate a simple situation is
unbelievable.

Is letting Quebecers enjoy an activity that is in the same category as
having a beer in their own backyard or house too much to ask? The
benefits of the sale and taxation of marijuana should be specific. The
money gathered must be fully accounted for and dedicated to a need
identified in a transparent process. The last place profits should go
is the "general fund," never to be seen again or accounted for.

Glen K. Malfara, Beaconsfield
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MAP posted-by: Matt