STRONG VOICE AGAINST EASING OF DOPE LAWS

Educators, district councils, rural groups and the National Party want the
decriminalisation of cannabis taken off the Government's agenda.

Twelve education bodies have formed an accord which says cannabis use by
children and adolescents is causing physiological damage to developing
organs, emotional stunting and severely compromising educational
achievement.

Councils around the country are being invited to support a petition from
the education sector by passing a resolution to that effect or placing
petition forms in their foyers.

The FNDC will decide today whether or not to lend its support. Backing the
initiative would appear to be in line with the stance taken by the council
in the recent Health Strategy paper.

National MP Nick Smith says Parliament is evenly balanced on the issue.

"Mayors and councils could well tip the balance on this serious issue," he
said.

"Scientific and medical research shows that cannabis use adversely affects
educational achievement, increases the incidence of mental health problems,
and increases the risk of road accidents."

The North Auckland branch of Rural Women NZ, formerly CWI, voted a
resounding 'No' to the decriminalisation of marijuana when they met at
Okaihau last month.

Opposition to decriminalisation is being led by the education sector.

Parents, principals, boards, teachers and Maori educators are totally
united in concern about the hazy messages from MPs and ministers about the
drug.

A recent poll by TVNZ showed that out of 98 MPs questioned, 42 would vote
to change the law, 35 would not and 21 were undecided.

A leader in the pro-decriminalisation lobby, MP Nandor Tanczos, says when
he smokes marijuana he is "worshipping his creator".

But those opposing the liberalisation of drug laws are concerned at easier
access to a drug they see as a threat to young minds.