Pubdate: Mon, 26 Feb 2018
Source: StarPhoenix, The (CN SN)
Copyright: 2018 The StarPhoenix
Contact:  http://thestarphoenix.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/400
Author: James M. Sutherland
Page: A7

LEGAL MARIJUANA IS A TERRIBLE IDEA

There seems to be a general euphoria with the upcoming legalization of
marijuana, while at the same time there is silence from the large
proportion of Canadians who oppose legalization.

Perhaps one should look at why marijuana was made illegal in the first
place. For many, it was a case of, "We have enough problems with
alcohol. If marijuana is legal, we'll have twice as many drug
problems." For others, they didn't want to live in a nation of zombies
where people are walking around stoned all day.

Anyone who thinks marijuana legalization will make the drug less
accessible to 15-year-olds is dreaming. Not only will it be more
accessible, it will also be cheaper.

Some point to tax revenue as one of the major advantages of marijuana
legalization. A heroin dealer makes a lot of money. Does that make
what he does good?

If a six-year-old in Saskatoon gets run over by someone who is so
stoned they can't see past the steering wheel, it may change the view
of many regarding marijuana legalization.

Dogs, cats, bats, bears and raccoons all have one thing in common:
they don't use illegal drugs. Some humans use illegal drugs. This
makes me question which group is more intelligent.

James M. Sutherland, Winnipeg
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MAP posted-by: Matt