Legalizing pot could prove educational
By: Frances Bula, Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC), 06-08-05


VANCOUVER -- Canada should legalize marijuana so that people trying to prevent drug abuse can talk to teens about it realistically, the way they do with alcohol and cigarettes.

That's one of two dozen recommendations put forward by the City of Vancouver, as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy for everything from methamphetamine production to alcoholism among seniors.

And it's a strategy that Vancouver Mayor Larry Campbell endorses wholeheartedly.

"I think the decriminalization doesn't do anybody any good. It sends the message that it's OK, but that it's a crime to obtain it."

Campbell acknowledges that Vancouver's stand won't produce immediate change. "It's a talking point, but clearly it's something that has to be done in Canada."

Others say putting marijuana onto the same level as alcohol and tobacco would allow teachers and prevention counsellors to talk about it strategically, rather than just avoiding the topic.

© 2005 H.U.M.A.N.: Hemp Users Medical Access Network - Toronto Medical Marijuana