STRONG LAWS NEEDED TO BATTLE SERIOUS DRUG CRIMES

To The Editor:

Regarding the Times & Transcript story "Province pushes for stronger
drug laws" in yesterday's edition, I thank New Brunswick Justice
Minister Mike Murphy for his support of our government's efforts to
combat serious drug crime.

The illicit drug trade is the primary source of income for street
gangs and other violent criminal organizations.

These groups often establish dangerous marijuana grow-ops and
methamphetamine labs in residential neighbourhoods. This represents a
significant threat to communities throughout Canada.

We need stronger sentences to send the message that we will not
tolerate this kind of activity.

I commend Mr. Murphy for his proposals and for working constructively
with the federal government on this issue.

It is unfortunate that the Liberals in the Senate chose to weaken our
bill. Make no mistake, if there is a loophole in our legislation, it
will be exploited. Because of these Liberal Senators, organized crime
groups will be able to set-up several grow-ops with up to 200 plants
each and not face mandatory jail time.

The Liberal Party in Ottawa often claims to be tough on crime, but
when the cameras are off they consistently and repeatedly undermine
our efforts. The Liberals in the Senate previously attempted to gut
our legislation to end the practice of two-for-one sentencing credits.

I sincerely hope Michael Ignatieff and his Liberal colleagues will
vote against these Senate amendments when the bill comes back to the
House.

For too long, these gangs who exploit our children and the addictions
of others have been able to operate with impunity.

It is time they faced meaningful consequences for their
actions.

Rob Moore, MP, Fundy Royal,

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice Ottawa, Ont.