Pubdate: Mon, 09 Sep 2002
Source: Ottawa Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2002, Canoe Limited Partnership
Contact:  http://www.fyiottawa.com/ottsun.shtml
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/329
Author: Troy Dexter
Note: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor, headline by newshawk

CHRETIEN'S LEGACY SHOULD BE LEGALIZATION

I agree fully with the Special Senate Committee for Illegal Drugs'
recommendation for full legalization of marijuana. It's been a long
time coming since such a decision has been reached that will affect
pot smokers around the country. I believe most Canadians would agree
with the study's findings and that support for such legislation would
be immense.

But I also believe that the Liberal Party has its thinking cap on now.
What if the federal government was to follow the committee's findings?
Could it mean an increase or decrease in popularity for the party?
Well, remember this: Jean Chretien is supposed to resign as PM in
February of 2004. Most likely he wants to exit politics leaving a
legacy. And wouldn't that be something, Jean Chretien would be
remembered for a lot of excellent legislation, but the legalization of
marijuana in Canada would be all thanks to Jean and the Liberal party.

Most Canadians can see that current drug laws toward marijuana are
outdated and unrealistic in today's society. Change has been necessary
for a long time in Canada, and a report like this is great news for
every Canadian.

I look forward to the day when marijuana becomes fully legalized and
that Canadians can rejoice and celebrate together at the fact that we
have a federal government that listens to the people.

Now let's wait and see if the government follows the recommendations
of the Senate committee.

Troy Dexter

(Our advice is don't hold your breath) 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake