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1 CN AB: LTE: Pot's Harm Exceeds Value Of Tax RevenueFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Herald (CN AB) Author:Pfenninger, Caspar Area:Alberta Lines:31 Added:12/29/2017

Re: "Why the big rush to legalize pot?," Letter, Dec. 23.

Mike Priaro has it right. We must look in the direction of Colorado in the U.S. They were a vanguard state in the legalization of marijuana.

Originally, the idea was sold on the promise of all this additional tax revenue from pot sales. Unfortunately, it did not turn out the way they had envisioned it.

What happened, among other negatives, was that the newly created health care costs exceeded the tax income by a large margin.

So, the initial win-win situation turned into a lose-lose proposition. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's wish to legalize marijuana in Canada is about creating his legacy.

Caspar Pfenninger, Calgary

[end]

2 Canada: LTE: Knowing The Risks Of Smoking PotFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:National Post (Canada) Author:McColl, Pamela Area:Canada Lines:36 Added:12/29/2017

Re: Half of all pot users shrug off driving risk; Survey. Maura Forrest, Dec. 20

Canadians need to be surveyed on far more marijuana harms than just the risk of driving impaired. Health Canada has identified conditions for which the use of marijuana is strictly contraindicated. Our country's health watchdog advises men to avoid the use of marijuana if they want to start a family.

How many Canadians understand the science that links marijuana to a heightened possibility of testicular cancer? How many Canadians are aware of the scientific evidence that suggests marijuana can negatively impact pre and postnatal development, including a link with heavy use and a five fold higher likelihood of distorted facial features as compared to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome babies?

Such warnings, provided from Health Canada and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use, are not the rantings of Reefer Madness, but rather statements by highly regarded institutions.

Pamela McColl, Vancouver B.C.

[end]

3CN BC: First Nations Look To Pot Industry For Economic BoostFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:National Post (Canada) Author:Smith, Gemma Karstens- Area:British Columbia Lines:Excerpt Added:12/29/2017

Vancouver - Canada's marijuana industry is expanding rapidly and some First Nations are looking to cash in on the emerging economic opportunities.

Phil Fontaine, an Indigenous politician turned marijuana executive, has spent the last year travelling the country and talking to First Nations about jobs, wealth and training opportunities the burgeoning marijuana business could bring.

"Everywhere we've been, it's been the same reaction, interest, excitement. First Nations are speaking about possibilities and potential. So it's been very encouraging," said the former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations.

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4 Canada: LTE: One Problem At A TimeFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:National Post (Canada) Author:Gagnon, Eric Area:Canada Lines:48 Added:12/29/2017

Re: Pot plan another Liberal mess. Kelly McParland, Dec. 21.

How can the Liberal government regulate marijuana once it is legalized, if they can't seem to tackle the even bigger issue of contraband tobacco in Canada?

We agree with Kelly McParland's column: The Liberal government's rush to get marijuana legalized by July 1, 2018, has not fully realized its repercussions.

Take taxation for instance - while taxes on tobacco represent close to 75 per cent of their selling price, marijuana taxes will not exceed a $1 per gram, or 10 per cent of a producer's selling price, according to Finance Minister Bill Morneau.

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5 CN PI: LTE: Legalizing Pot A Terrible IdeaFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:Guardian, The (CN PI) Author:Weeks, Scott Area:Prince Edward Island Lines:52 Added:12/29/2017

Legalizing a drug like marijuana will not stop young people from using it, it will increase consumption.

Kevin Page, the Parliamentary budget officer, estimates 600,000 new users will start using marijuana if it becomes legal in Canada.

Marijuana is extremely dangerous for user aged 14-25 since the teenage brain is developing.

I love my family; we don't use drugs, I love my city, Charlottetown, I don't want the citizens using drugs.

Same goes for my province and great country Canada.

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6 CN ON: County Has Questions About Pot LegalizationFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:Daily Observer, The (Pembroke, CN ON) Author:Chase, Sean Area:Ontario Lines:54 Added:12/29/2017

Renfrew County councillors have more questions than answers when it comes to the impending legalization of marijuana by both the federal and provincial Liberal governments.

Earlier this month, legislation giving the provincial Liberals a monopoly on recreational marijuana sales in Ontario passed at Queen's Park. The bill creates a provincial agency that will distribute and retail pot through storefronts and online. It also creates stiff fines that could top $1 million against companies and people who sell marijuana in defiance of the government monopoly.

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7 CN NS: Local Dispenser Foresees Growing DemandFri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:News, The (New Glasgow, CN NS) Author:MacInnis, Adam Area:Nova Scotia Lines:64 Added:12/29/2017

Legalization of marijuana was a long time coming, but Carl Morgan believes the future is bright for selling the product in Nova Scotia.

Morgan is currently the owner of two medical marijuana dispensaries - Scotia Green Inc. on East River Road in New Glasgow and one on Spring Garden Road in Halifax.

While they've had some uphill battles, he believes the business will continue to grow into the New Year despite the fact that the province has made the decision that recreational marijuana will be sold at Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation outlets.

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8 CN MB: 'It Could Happen To Any Of Them'Fri, 29 Dec 2017
Source:Winnipeg Free Press (CN MB) Author:Macintosh, Maggie Area:Manitoba Lines:127 Added:12/29/2017

Grieving father warns kids about dangers of drugs after son's death

SMOKE from a smudging stick and the warm breath of friends and family of Jeremy Hobson filled the front yard of the house where the 21-year-old accidentally overdosed and died on the weekend, during a ceremony held Thursday.

Jeremy died after taking a pill, which he thought was OxyContin, at a gettogether with friends and cousins on Saturday night, according to his father Larry Hobson. Hobson said he thinks the pill that killed his son was laced with fentanyl.

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9CN PI: Weed ControlThu, 28 Dec 2017
Source:Guardian, The (CN PI) Author:McEachern, Terrence Area:Prince Edward Island Lines:Excerpt Added:12/28/2017

UPEI engineering students have designed and developed a THC breathalyzer device

A group of UPEI engineering students has come up with a way to help detect levels of marijuana in drivers.

The students designed and developed a prototype, handheld THC detection device.

But before they consider taking the product or a technological aspect to market, they have some unfinished business to take care of.

"We're going to concentrate on graduating first. And then after that, we'll see what happens," said Bryce Stewart of Wood Islands.

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10 CN ON: Pot Prices Cause ConcernThu, 28 Dec 2017
Source:Telegram, The (CN NF) Author:Ubelacker, Sheryl Area:Ontario Lines:161 Added:12/28/2017

Medical users fear legalized recreational marijuana may leave them behind in puff of smoke

For Mandy Mcknight, the benefits of cannabis oil to treat her son Liam's debilitating seizures seem almost miraculous - the nine-year-old has gone from being wracked daily by dozens of the life-threatening episodes to having days when he experiences none.

But like many Canadians authorized by doctors to use marijuana to treat a wide range of medical disorders, Mcknight is worried what will happen when recreational pot for adults becomes legally available through government-sanctioned retail outlets in July 2018.

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11 CN BC: Addicts Will Get Clean DrugsThu, 28 Dec 2017
Source:Georgia Straight, The (CN BC) Author:Lupick, Travis Area:British Columbia Lines:121 Added:12/28/2017

Vancouver has a history pioneering harm-reduction programs. In 2003, it opened North America's first supervised-injection facility, Insite. In 2014, it moved a prescription-heroin program beyond the confines of an academic study.

Now B.C. will launch its most radical drug program yet. It's a plan that one of the province's top doctors says could be a partial solution to the province's opioid crisis.

Tentatively scheduled to begin in March 2018, Vancouver will dispense hydromorphone-a synthetic opioid similar to heroin-in a way that, if all goes according to plan, will not require a doctor's visit and possibly not even a prescription for the powerful drug.

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12 CN ON: Six Nations Business Wants Answers On Pot SalesThu, 28 Dec 2017
Source:Hamilton Spectator (CN ON) Author:Moro, Teviah Area:Ontario Lines:104 Added:12/28/2017

Owner of Green Health for Six waiting to hear from Ottawa, council, and initiated survey

As far as Jeff Hawk is concerned, his marijuana dispensary is filling a void in Six Nations.

Potentially deadly opiates are widely available, but safe, medicinal marijuana is not, says Hawk, owner of Green Health for Six.

"There ain't really a large industry in pot anymore. That's what I'm worried about."

Hawk says his dispensary on Highway 54 just outside Ohsweken has a solid customer base for weed, edibles and oils.

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13 CN ON: Column: Teenaged Son Refuses To Give Up His Daily Pot HabitTue, 26 Dec 2017
Source:Hamilton Spectator (CN ON) Author:Direnfeld, Gary Area:Ontario Lines:58 Added:12/27/2017

Q: Our 16-year-old son smokes dope daily. We see his grades slipping from last year. He keeps talking about it being legalized and therefore not harmful. How do we get him to understand that he still shouldn't be smoking?

A: How one addresses the issue depends on how one understands the problem. Regular marijuana use in teens can occur if they become addicted to the substance or it may be masking an undiagnosed mental health problem such as depression or anxiety. Or your son may be otherwise well but enjoying the substance and simply not conforming to your expectations.

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14 CN BC: Cities Bracing For Weed LegalizationTue, 26 Dec 2017
Source:Metro (Vancouver, CN BC) Author:Li, Wanyee Area:British Columbia Lines:67 Added:12/27/2017

Feds have promised a deadline of July 1, 2018

The day marijuana advocates and enthusiasts have long been waiting for what will come in 2018 - recreational marijuana will be legalized on Canada Day.

But with federal legislation comes a host of logistical and revenue issues for provinces and cities across the country. Vancouver may appear to have a head start, as the city established a licensing program for marijuana dispensaries in 2015, but it will need to follow provincial rules on the issue as well.

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15CN AB: Chief Says Legalizing Cannabis Doesn't Mean Possession ChargesTue, 26 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Author:Wakefield, Jonny Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Legalizing marijuana will tie up police resources and risks clogging the court system, Edmonton police Chief Rod Knecht says in a blunt assessment of Canada's plan to legalize the drug by next summer.

"I don't think we're going to be ready," Knecht said during a yearend interview at Edmonton Police Service headquarters. "There's a lot of work that's got to be done in the next few months."

Legalization is one of the biggest issues facing police services across the country next year. Police chiefs including Knecht have warned that the timelines are too tight and there are too many outstanding issues, including ambiguity around roadside tests for marijuanaintoxication.

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16CN AB: Pot Remains Illegal Despite Looming ChangesTue, 26 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Herald (CN AB) Author:Martin, Kevin Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Police use discretion when deciding whether to lay charges for possession

Despite the Liberal government's plan to legalize marijuana possession next July, the drug's possession remains illegal.

But while the law is still in place, police officers have discretion not to lay charges, a senior officer with the Calgary Police Service said.

Staff Sgt. Mark Hatchette, of the strategic enforcement unit, said officers have and will continue to have leeway when it comes to pot possession.

"We don't target (simple possession)," Hatchette said in a recent interview.

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17CN BC: Doctor Proposes Vending Machines For Opioid DrugsSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Vancouver Sun (CN BC) Author:Bains, Camille Area:British Columbia Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Making a safe opioid available in vending machines may be the next harm-reduction tool to fight the deadly overdose epidemic, says the executive medical director of the B.C. Centre for Disease Control.

Dr. Mark Tyndall said he envisions a regulated system where drug users would be assessed, registered and issued a card to use in vending machines to obtain hydromorphone, a painkiller commonly marketed under the brand name Dilaudid.

"I'm hoping that it's kind of like supervised injection sites," he said of the program that could begin as early as next March. "At first it sounded a bit off the wall and now it's pretty well accepted."

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18 CN BC: Vancouver's Overdose Crisis, One Year LaterFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Metro (Vancouver, CN BC) Author:Denis, Jen St. Area:British Columbia Lines:109 Added:12/27/2017

New tools are helping - but more needs to be done

December 2016 is seared into the memory of people who live or work with people from the Downtown Eastside, the epicentre of B.C.'s opioid overdose crisis.

"People were going down in alleyways," Karen Ward remembers. "It was a year ago that nine people died in one weekend.

"I remember the night when three people died in my building."

"BC Ambulance had its busiest day in history, St. Paul's hospital was fully blocked up and we were seeing the highest rates of overdoses that we had seen in the emergency room and at Insite," Dr. Mark Lysyshyn recalls.

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19 CN NF: LTE: Mr. Trudeau, Weare Just Not ReadyMon, 25 Dec 2017
Source:Aurora, The (CN NF) Author:Power, Keihan Area:Newfoundland Lines:90 Added:12/27/2017

During his election campaign, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to legalize marijuana if we chose him as our leader. That day is near, and marijuana might be legalized on Canada Day 2018. Such a decision should not be taken lightly. Our country is not ready for this change.

To clarify, I don't want to come across as cynical. I know that medical marijuana has its place in treating patients with chronic or terminal illness. I also don't agree with throwing people in jail for carrying small amounts for personal use. I see this as a waste of time, money and resources. At the same time, however, I don't think that the legalization of marijuana is what our country needs. And I certainly don't think it will make our country healthier, happier or safer. The decision to legalize marijuana has implications for health, society and our youth.

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20 CN AB: LTE: Slow Down, EveryoneSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:South Peace News, The (CN AB) Author:Unger, Betty Area:Alberta Lines:48 Added:12/27/2017

Why is the federal government in such a hurry to pass its marijuana legalization legislation when there are still so many questions and so few answers?

Just this week, the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police said that the legislation is coming too fast, stating that, "There is insufficient time to prepare the necessary legislative framework and regulations to ensure the public safety". The Canadian Association of Police Chiefs warned that it will be "impossible" to be ready for the government's target of legalizing marijuana by July 2018. Do these things not matter?

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21 Canada: Senators Tackle Legal Pot BillSun, 24 Dec 2017
Source:Toronto Sun (CN ON) Author:Pazzano, Sam Area:Canada Lines:58 Added:12/27/2017

Senator Tony Dean is quarterbacking the challenging, complicated marijuana bill come Jan. 31, 2018, when his fellow Senators get back to their posts.

But he has already armed his colleagues for informed debate amongst the 38 fellow Independent senators, 34 Tories and 15 Liberals.

"It's not a cold start, we've heard from some 100 witnesses at parliamentary committees about the nature of cannabis," said Dean in an interview this week.

"I don't believe the status quo (prohibition) is viable," said Dean, 64, a senator since Nov. 2016.

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22 Canada: Prohibition FalloutSun, 24 Dec 2017
Source:Toronto Sun (CN ON) Author:Pazzano, Sam Area:Canada Lines:85 Added:12/27/2017

Marijuana laws smouldering discontent: Critics

The marijuana prohibition era may be closing as early as Canada Day 2018, but pot users may still be burned by old drug laws, warn two veteran criminal defence lawyers.

The current effort at legalization is "so half-hearted" and simply doesn't deal with the fallout of decades of weed Prohibition, they say. Simple pot possessors - and pot growers - are still being prosecuted and given heavy sentences.

The Canadian government has not made any provision to pardon the thousands of people with simple possession convictions. Their criminal records prevent them from entering the U.S., say critics here.

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23 CN ON: PUB LTE: Pluses To PotSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Beacon Herald, The (CN ON) Author:Hawkins, J. D. Area:Ontario Lines:36 Added:12/27/2017

With the plague of opiate overdoses, some doctors are prescribing pot to get people off opioids. There are many positive medical applications which help many people with everything from mental illness, terminal conditions, to severe physical disabilities.

Fact is we have never had legal recreational pot, so how can you say it's going to destroy communities? I would like to point out how legalizing it has worked for Colorado and I think the red light district in Amsterdam would also beg to differ.

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24CN AB: Head Shops Pipe Up Over Looming Pot LegalizationSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Herald (CN AB) Author:Kaufmann, Bill Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

With the coming switch to legal sales, shops hope to keep their market niche

After decades of trail-blazing cannabis-related retail - often under police scrutiny - Calgary head shops say legal recreational marijuana offers them a hazy future.

Despite a perception looming legislative changes might affirm their bong-and-roach-clip business model, those first in on cannabis monetization say the coming reality leaves them in uncharted waters.

It's not entirely clear what head shops' role will be in the sale of legal bud, or if coming pot dispensaries will burn their business by also selling accessories, said Fred Pattison, owner of the Next Level store. Even marijuana's mainstreaming and the expansion of e-retail poses a threat, he said.

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25CN ON: OPED: Here's Why We Need Public Spaces Where People Can UseSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Ottawa Citizen (CN ON) Author:Valleriani, Jenna Area:Ontario Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Licensing vapour lounges would enhance safety, say Jenna Valleriani and Abi Roach.

If you've been following the plans for cannabis legalization across Canada, one of the key concerns is not just how it will be sold, but where exactly people will be allowed to consume cannabis.

Not in parks, or in the streets, certainly not in restaurants or even in places where there are existing tobacco allowances. In Ontario, the proposed legislation boils down to this: The only place we can consume legal cannabis will be in the privacy of our homes.

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26CN AB: Since 2016, Over 120 Overdoses Reported In Alberta's JailsFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Author:Wakefield, Jonny Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Higher-potency opioids lead to concerns about how to keep inmates and staff safe

Alberta correctional facilities have recorded more than 120 overdoses in the past two years, and dozens more in federal prisons in the province, new statistics show.

Postmedia obtained the data after a string of overdoses at the Edmonton Remand Centre.

Since Nov. 29, at least three inmates at the remand centre have been found unresponsive in their cells after apparent overdoses, one of whom died.

Despite efforts to keep contraband out of correctional institutions - including the use of ion scanners, body scanners and detector dogs - the statistics show deadly opioids such as fentanyl are still getting in.

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27 CN AB: City Grapples With Looming Legal PotSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Medicine Hat News (CN AB) Author:Gallant, Collin Area:Alberta Lines:90 Added:12/27/2017

The City of Medicine Hat is preparing for the Canada-wide legalization of marijuana in 2018, but in the absence of final rules from other levels of government, local regulations remain a work in progress, officials said this week.

"It is a big cumbersome process, and we're on track to be ready for July, but we'll see a lot of activity in the next six months," commissioner Stan Schwartzenberger told Wednesday's meeting of the development and infrastructure committee.

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28 CN AB: Trying To Stay AheadSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Sun, The (CN AB) Author:Kaufmann, Bill Area:Alberta Lines:86 Added:12/27/2017

Paraphernalia retailers wait for smoke to clear as legalization of marijuana draws near

After decades of trailblazing cannabis-related retail - often under police scrutiny - Calgary head shops say legal recreational marijuana offers them a hazy future.

Despite a perception looming legislative changes might affirm their bong and roach clip business model, those first in on cannabis monetization say the coming reality leaves them in uncharted waters.

It's not entirely clear what head shops' role will be in the sale of legal bud, or if coming pot dispensaries will burn their business by also selling accessories, said Fred Pattison, owner of the Next Level store.

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29 CN AB: Alberta Jails Saw More Than 120 Overdoses In 2016Fri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Sun (CN AB) Author:Wakefield, Jonny Area:Alberta Lines:90 Added:12/27/2017

Alberta correctional facilities have recorded more than 120 overdoses in the past two years, and dozens more in federal prisons in the province, new statistics show.

Postmedia obtained the data after a string of overdoses at the Edmonton Remand Centre.

Since Nov. 29, at least three inmates at the remand centre have been found unresponsive in their cells after apparent overdoses, one of whom died.

Despite efforts to keep contraband out of correctional institutions - including use of ion scanners, body scanners and detector dogs - the statistics show deadly opioids such as fentanyl are still getting in.

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30 CN QU: LTE: Sex And Drugs And EducationFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Montreal Gazette (CN QU) Author:Sterling, Sandra Area:Quebec Lines:37 Added:12/27/2017

Re: "Plan for sex ed gets thumbs up, with some reservations" (Montreal Gazette, Dec. 15) Sex education is a good thing. Even better would be separate classes for boys and girls so everyone can feel free to ask any question without being inhibited or fearful of being laughed at.

Not to mention boys and girls are at a different level of maturity.

I would suggest there be specially trained professionals who go from school to school or teachers who get special training in-house.

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31CN AB: Cannabis Operations Shut Down By Police, Multiple Charges LaidFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Author:Theobald, Claire Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Owner of one business said he 'wanted to be a role model' for future dispensaries

City police have shut down two south Edmonton cannabis operations, but the owner of one says he was just trying to help medical marijuana patients fill their prescriptions.

"I really wanted to be a role model for the city and to get this done right. I wanted them to work with me, not against me," David Tiefenbach, one of the owners of MediJoint, 7809 109 St., said Thursday.

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32 CN AB: Pot Shops Shut DownFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Sun (CN AB) Author:Theobald, Claire Area:Alberta Lines:84 Added:12/27/2017

Cops close two cannabis dispensaries, multiple charges pending

City police have shut down two south Edmonton cannabis dispensaries, but the owner of one says he was just trying to help medical marijuana patients fill their prescriptions.

"I really wanted to be a role model for the city and to get this done right. I wanted them to work with me, not against me," David Tiefenbach, one of the owners of Medijoint, 7809 109 St., said Thursday.

Tiefenbach said he was trying to establish a legitimate dispensary, which police raided and closed Dec. 13.

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33 CN ON: Drug Divides RespondersSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:London Free Press (CN ON) Author:Bieman, Jennifer Area:Ontario Lines:135 Added:12/27/2017

Liability issues make area police, firefighters wary of administering opioid overdose antidote

Naloxone for all? Not so fast.

The province's newly-announced plan to equip front-line police officers and firefighters with the potentially lifesaving opioid overdose antidote free-of-charge isn't without its drawbacks, critics say - and emergency responders across Southwestern Ontario are divided on how to handle it.

Sarnia officers have already saved one life by administering naloxone, an injectable or inhalable emergency drug that blocks the affects of opioid overdose.

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34 Canada: Companies Fret About Hazy Rules Around Pot UseSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Toronto Star (CN ON) Author:Szklarski, Cassandra Area:Canada Lines:87 Added:12/27/2017

Some HR officials concerned that legalization could lead to safety issues in workplace

Once recreational cannabis use becomes legal, taking a "smoke break" at work could suddenly become much more complicated.

At least that's the fear among some human resources officials who wonder if the law change will bring impairment at work, decreased productivity, poor attendance and, of course, safety issues.

Many questions linger over what legal pot will mean for the average workplace, says Scott Allinson of the Human Resources Professionals Association, which outlined its concerns in a 25-page report over the summer.

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35CN AB: Deadly Drugs Plague Alberta JailsFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Herald (CN AB) Author:Wakefield, Jonny Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Opioids linked to 95% of overdoses in provincial facilities through 2016

Alberta correctional facilities have recorded more than 120 overdoses in the past two years, and dozens more in federal prisons in the province, new statistics show.

Postmedia obtained the data after a string of overdoses at the Edmonton Remand Centre.

Since Nov. 29, at least three inmates at the remand centre have been found unresponsive in their cells after apparent overdoses, one of whom died.

Despite efforts to keep contraband out of correctional institutions - including use of ion scanners, body scanners and detector dogs - the statistics show deadly opioids such as fentanyl are still getting in.

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36 CN ON: 'If We Can Help, We Want To Help'Sat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Tribune, The (CN ON) Author:Benner, Allan Area:Ontario Lines:89 Added:12/27/2017

Police want laws to change regarding the drug naloxone

Special Investigations Unit spokesperson Monica Hudon said the organization is mandated to investigate all deaths and serious injuries involving the police, and that includes cases "where the extent of alleged involvement was simply the administration of a medication such as naloxone."

"Whether or not the administration of the drug by a police officer was the only interaction with a person who subsequently died or suffered a serious injury is for the SIU to determine," she said.

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37 CN NS: Column: Stinky Little SecretSat, 23 Dec 2017
Source:Cape Breton Post (CN NS) Author:Wangersky, Russell Area:Nova Scotia Lines:93 Added:12/27/2017

Weed, both smoked and unsmoked, is more pungent than it once was

There's a dirty little secret about legalized marijuana, one that could become an issue in neighbourhoods across the country.

Well, maybe it would be better to describe it as a stinky little secret, but one that's likely to become very familiar - and maybe too familiar.

Weed, both smoked and unsmoked, is more pungent than it once was. It's gone through decades of horticultural experimentation to strengthen its kick. And there's likely to be a lot more of that pungent to go around once smoking a joint isn't a criminal offence anymore.

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38CN PI: Column: The Whiff Of Weed Permeates The AirFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Guardian, The (CN PI) Author:Wangersky, Russell Area:Prince Edward Island Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

There's a dirty little secret about legalized marijuana, one that could become an issue in neighbourhoods across the country.

Well, maybe it would be better to describe it as a stinky little secret, but one that's likely to become very familiar - and maybe too familiar.

Weed, both smoked and unsmoked, is more pungent than it once was. It's gone through decades of horticultural experimentation to strengthen its kick. And there's likely to be a lot more of that pungent to go around once smoking a joint isn't a criminal offence anymore.

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39 CN AB: PUB LTE: Don't Worry About Canada Going To PotFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Calgary Herald (CN AB) Author:Currie, James Area:Alberta Lines:29 Added:12/27/2017

Re: "Pot use likely to plague workplaces," Letter, Nov. 30.

I have to disagree with Larry Comeau. Marijuana is not a dangerous drug.

There is not a "greatly enhanced risk" of young people developing psychosis as a result of cannabis usage. The medical evidence is equivocal, and, of course, as a physician, I would caution the use of marijuana in people under the age of 25. (Not that advice would make any difference anyway).

However, the almost hysterical opposition to legalization of marijuana is simply wrong, by all scientific standards.

James Currie, Calgary

[end]

40CN BC: Editorial: Don't Bury Our FarmlandFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)          Area:British Columbia Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Marijuana could be a profitable addition to the crops grown in Central Saanich, but a proposal for a huge operation raises a recurring question about the way we use agricultural land. Why bury perfectly good, scarce agricultural land under greenhouses, which could be built just about anywhere?

Shawn Galbraith proposes to build a 150,000-square foot, $25-million greenhouse on the Stanhope Dairy Farm, near the point where Lochside Drive turns into the Lochside Trail. He plans a five-to seven-year project with 21 greenhouses on 36 acres.

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41 CN AB: Police Shut Down Two DispensariesFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Metro (Edmonton, CN AB) Author:Maimann, Kevin Area:Alberta Lines:95 Added:12/27/2017

Several people now face drugrelated charges

It's not legal yet.

Police sent out a stern warning Thursday after shutting down two cannabis dispensaries in south Edmonton - including one that required prescriptions for purchase - and making several arrests.

"We want the owners and employees of these illegal cannabis operations to be aware that they're breaking the law, and that we'll continue to enforce that law until such time those laws are changed," said Edmonton Police Service Insp. Shane Perka.

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42CN AB: OPED: Objections To Medical Cannabis 'Dead Wrong'Fri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Author:Moir, James Area:Alberta Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

College's information outdated, says James Moir.

The Alberta College of Family Physicians (ACFP) recently published a statement reflecting their stance on medical cannabis, basically stating there is insufficient evidence to recommend it, and that adverse effects outweigh any benefits.

As a physician working in Edmonton's only legitimate "physician-and-nurse-run" cannabinoid medical clinic, I must object strongly to this stance. I have an MD from the University of Alberta, with five years' subspecialty training in anesthesiology and pain medicine, and have over 20 years clinical experience in this area. I have five years' experience in perioperative medicine and extra training in cannabinoid medicine, which allows me to prescribe medical cannabis and work in the clinic, where I have been for the better part of a year.

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43 CN ON: Up In SmokeFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Cape Breton Post (CN NS) Author:Ubelacker, Sheryl Area:Ontario Lines:161 Added:12/27/2017

Medical users fear legalized recreational pot may leave them behind

For Mandy McKnight, the benefits of cannabis oil to treat her son Liam's debilitating seizures seem almost miraculous - the nine-year-old has gone from being wracked daily by dozens of the life-threatening episodes to having days now when he experiences none.

But like many Canadians authorized by doctors to use marijuana to treat a wide range of medical disorders, McKnight is worried what will happen when recreational pot for adults becomes legally available through government-sanctioned retail outlets in July.

[continues 1054 words]

44 CN ON: Pot Shop Ups Security After Cops Charge Staffer AgainFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:London Free Press (CN ON) Author:Carruthers, Dale Area:Ontario Lines:70 Added:12/27/2017

A downtown London pot shop has beefed up security after a staffer was charged for the second time in less than three months.

The charges announced Thursday against Michael Leeder, 27, stem from a three-week investigation into the London Relief Centre, an illegal marijuana dispensary that set up shop on Richmond Row in September.

Police raided the dispensary, where anyone over the age of 19 can buy cannabis, even without a valid pot prescription, less than two weeks after it opened. Leeder and four others were charged with multiple counts of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking.

[continues 334 words]

45 CN BC: LTE: SD 67 Dropped Ball On NeedlesFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Penticton Herald (CN BC) Author:Lang, Joy Area:British Columbia Lines:37 Added:12/27/2017

Dear editor: It was shocking to read that a parent and her nine-year-old child had to take on the drug-needle problem in our school grounds (Western News, Dec. 12).

That secret Queen's Park shed should never have been secret in the first place. What with such a fuss being made about possible marijuana shops anywhere within sight of schools, how can discarded needles go on being all over the place, right at those schools?

Wendy Hyer, school district superintendent, seems not to realize what her priorities should be, and therefore what we are paying her for.

[continues 67 words]

46 CN NS: Column: The Whiff Of Weed: This Year's Crime Is Next Year'sFri, 22 Dec 2017
Source:Truro Daily News (CN NS) Author:Wangersky, Russell Area:Nova Scotia Lines:89 Added:12/27/2017

There's a dirty little secret about legalized marijuana, one that could become an issue in neighbourhoods across the country.

Well, maybe it would be better to describe it as a stinky little secret, but one that's likely to become very familiar - and maybe too familiar.

Weed, both smoked and unsmoked, is more pungent than it once was. It's gone through decades of horticultural experimentation to strengthen its kick. And there's likely to be a lot more of that pungent to go around once smoking a joint isn't a criminal offence anymore.

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47 CN ON: Chief Worries About Toking And DrivingWed, 27 Dec 2017
Source:Sault Star, The (CN ON) Author:Kelly, Brian Area:Ontario Lines:108 Added:12/27/2017

Impending legalization is daunting says Keetch

Sault Ste. Marie's top cop anticipates impaired driving by drugs "is going to be a significant challenge" in the latter half of the new year.

The federal government plans to legalize marijuana on July 1.

Robert Keetch, chief of Sault Ste. Marie Police Service, fears city residents will opt to toke and drive, not recognizing how their ability to drive may be impaired.

"Canadians have not been getting the message when it comes to impaired driving and it remains the leading criminal cause of death in Canada," he told The Sault Star. "I believe that legalizing marijuana will only add to the numbers of drivers on our roadways whose ability to drive is impaired by either alcohol and/or drugs. I believe there are individuals who will consume legal marijuana and be under a false impression that their ability to drive is not impaired and will get behind the wheel of a vehicle and drive."

[continues 538 words]

48 CN ON: Editorial: Don't Delay Cannabis LawWed, 27 Dec 2017
Source:Toronto Star (CN ON)          Area:Ontario Lines:105 Added:12/27/2017

The most important social and legal change in Canada during 2018 will almost certainly be the legalization of marijuana. This move, the boldest by the Trudeau government so far, will end almost a century of prohibition of cannabis that has resulted in a great deal of misery while delivering few benefits in return.

The House of Commons has passed two laws that will make the consumption of marijuana legal while toughening the rules against abuse of the drug. The prime minister now says his goal is to put them into effect by "next summer."

[continues 683 words]

49Canada: Cannabiswise Program To Ease Consumer ConcernsWed, 27 Dec 2017
Source:Vancouver Sun (CN BC) Author:Givetash, Linda Area:Canada Lines:Excerpt Added:12/27/2017

Certification initiative to test businesses for quality control, ethical production

Marijuana consumers are likely to have a flood of options when pot becomes legal next summer and now a not-for-profit group is stepping in to help determine which products to trust.

The National Institute for Cannabis Health and Education said its CannabisWise certification will test businesses on quality and safety guidelines, similar to the way other voluntary programs regulate pharmacy services or fish products in Canada.

The institute's CEO, Barinder Rasode, said they've heard concerns that Canadians are looking for clarity when it comes to buying quality marijuana that is sourced ethically and adhering to laws from all three levels of government.

[continues 372 words]

50 CN ON: The Populist Reformer Who Stood Alone In Supporting Pot BillWed, 27 Dec 2017
Source:Globe and Mail (Canada) Author:Curry, Bill Area:Ontario Lines:112 Added:12/27/2017

Scott Reid stood alone on the Conservative benches as the House of Commons gave its final say on landmark legislation to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.

Of the 74 Conservative MPs in attendance for the late November vote, he was the only one to support the bill. He was also the only MP in the Chamber who could say with some level of confidence that his vote represented the wish of his constituents.

Nearly 3,100 of Mr. Reid's constituents in the Eastern Ontario rural riding of Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston responded to a mail-in referendum on the bill, resulting in a narrow finding of 55-per-cent support. Mr. Reid voted accordingly.

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