Pubdate: Sun, 22 Apr 2007
Source: Edmonton Journal (CN AB)
Copyright: 2007 The Edmonton Journal
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/edmonton/edmontonjournal/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/134
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v07/n481/a06.html
Author: Ken Wylie

FEDERAL POT POLICY MISGUIDED

Re: "Markup on medical marijuana 1,500%: High cost a hardship for 
users left unemployed by illness, patients say," The Journal, April 16.

Is anyone really surprised that the federal government is raking in 
huge profits from its private marijuana grow-op? Or, that it is doing 
this on the backs of people who are sick and suffering?

The hypocrisy of the government is astounding. On one hand, they 
persist in telling us that marijuana is a dangerous substance. Forget 
the fact that the medical journal Lancet recently stated marijuana is 
clearly less dangerous than alcohol or nicotine, both of which are 
legally available. Ignore the fact that 12 American states now 
recognize the benefits of medical marijuana in relieving pain or 
discomfort experienced by sufferers of glaucoma, AIDS, joint pain and 
even high blood pressure.

People who cannot afford the exorbitant prices charged by the 
government have only one recourse -- dealing with criminal suppliers.

Misguided policy is driving the sick and wounded into the arms of 
street dealers.

Ken Wylie, Edmonton
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom