UNLIKE U.S., OUR APPROACH IS BALANCED

I have read with interest Dan Gardner's article on Canada's drug policy
("U.S. says jump, we say how high?" Feb. 28). While Mr. Gardner may be very
familiar with the United States's war on drugs, he is clearly less familiar
with Canada's drug policy.

Canada's drug policy is based on a balanced approach between demand
reduction (prevention, treatment and harm reduction) and supply reduction
(law enforcement). The long-term goal of Canada's drug strategy is to
reduce the physical, psychological and economic harm caused to our society
by substance abuse. Our approach is based on the view that substance abuse
is primarily a health issue rather than a law enforcement issue, and should
be addressed through a reasonable, realistic, pragmatic and humane response.

It is unfortunate that the writer reported on just one assessment of
Canadian drug policy rather than providing a more balanced view. In
contrast to the report cited by Mr. Gardner, the U.S. State Department, in
its recent annual narcotics report, called Canadian drug law enforcement
efforts effective, while also noting that our drug control strategy
emphasizes drug abuse prevention and treatment.

The Federal Prosecution Service takes such crimes as drug trafficking
seriously. Vigorous prosecution of those involved in drug trafficking or
cannabis-growing operations is a priority for us. These are serious
offences, and when charges are laid, prosecutions are undertaken and jail
time is sought by prosecutors.

Meanwhile, I stand by my comments about the importance of curbing drug use.
We can and should do more. Drug abuse and addiction are devastating
problems and the government should not, and will not, shy away from trying
to reduce these societal ills. To help deal more effectively with addicted
offenders, the federal government is working with provincial governments,
health care professionals and law enforcement officials.

One of our goals is to work with these partners to establish drug courts.
Our government in the last election pledged to do more through a national
drug strategy to enhance prevention initiatives, treatment, rehabilitation
and research, as well as increase our law enforcement efforts and
co-operation with our international partners.

I believe that this balanced approach is the right one for Canada as we
work to reduce drug use within our borders.

Anne McLellan, Ottawa, Justice minister