GANG-FRIENDLY LEGISLATION

The irony of increasing jail time for gang-related crime, as the
federal government has proposed, is that it actually increases the
number of members in gangs and the number of gangs (RCMP Link B.C.
Gang Violence To Mexican Drug Wars - March 4). Many gangs were started
and all are expanded by recruitment in jail. Most established gang
members have absolutely nothing to fear when going to prison. Since
they run the place, increased prison time is definitely not a
deterrent for them.

Gangs are fuelled by the demand for substances that are prohibited.
The Conservatives' proposed legislation would finance gangs and aid in
their proliferation, making Canada more dangerous for all of us.

Paul DeFelice

Nelson, B.C.