CHIEF OPPOSES LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA

Canada's police chiefs aren't suggesting that possession of small amounts of
marijuana be decriminalized - just that their organization consider
endorsing the removal of finger printing and photographing suspects.

That distinction was made by Calgary police chief Christine Silverberg, as
she tried to emphasize that recent reports on the views of Canada's police
chiefs don't cover all aspects of the controversial issue.

"Let me make it clear, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police stands
firm in opposing any type of legalization of any and all illicit drugs. And
I remain on record as being unequivocal in my opposition of legalization."

Silverberg pointed out that initial media reports neglected to say the
notion of removing photographing and fingerprinting of suspects was a policy
paper created by a committee - not the position of the entire association.
It would not become a position unless all the members endorsed it at a
general meeting slated for August.

"All of Canada's police chiefs will determine the associations's ultimate
position," Silverberg said.

As well, she noted the policy paper addresses " a matter of process, as
compared to legalization." However, this hasn't prevented the policy paper
from being roundly criticized.

Ontario Premier Mike Harris, who will likely call an election this year,
said, "we are for zero tolerance, we are for early enforcement, we are for
early diversion and rehabilitation. We shouldn't be making it easier for
our children to get drugs." Currently, possession of less than 30 grams of
marijuana is often dealt with through a fine.

Silverberg also said the association of police chiefs is "concerned" about
any attempts to permit the medicinal use of marijuana. But it believes that
scientists with Health Canada are best able to suggest how to deal with the
issue.