TORIES REVIVE THEIR TOUGH ANTI-DRUG BILL

The Conservative government revived a bill yesterday to impose
automatic jail terms for drug-related crime, a move critics have said
would put a strain on already crowded prisons and jails.

The bill is similar to one the Conservatives introduced more than a
year ago, which died when the Oct. 14 general election was called.

"Mandatory prison sentences are appropriate for those who commit
serious drug offences threatening our society," Justice Minister Rob
Nicholson said.

The proposed legislation would impose one-year mandatory jail time for
marijuana dealing, when it is linked to organized crime or a weapon is
involved.

The sentence would be increased to two years for dealing such drugs as
cocaine, heroin or methamphetamines to young people, or pushing drugs
near a school or other places frequented by youths.

The government also proposes tougher penalties for trafficking in
date-rape drugs.

Critics oppose mandatory minimums because they eliminate discretion
for judges to impose sentences as they see fit.

Opponents have warned minimum terms for drugs will flood Canadian
prisons and jails.