IT IS TIME TO DECRIMINALIZE POT

To The Editor:

Regarding the recent news surrounding marijuana, I would like to make
a few comments and even a debate.

First, marijuana has become part of our culture and whether we like it
or not, it's here to stay.

I would argue Constable Cameron's recent remarks in which he stated
that marijuana tears families apart and has a devastating effect on
society, are ridiculous.

The only devastating effect is the fact that the law "criminalizes"
everyday, hard-working citizens who are good people who freely chose
to use marijuana recreationally.

Not only does criminalizing them create a devastating effect on
families and society, it also puts money in the hands of organized
crime.

Your average everyday pot smoker consists of every part of our society
from high class to low class and all in between.

The average everyday hard-working citizen of this great country should
be able to grow a pot plant in his/her garden like a cucumber, or buy
it through a government agency which in turn will create millions and
millions in revenue.

And since there would be no criminalizing of marijuana, organized
crime would be out of the pot business.

The money would go back to the people.

Law enforcement must stop criminalizing its citizens and focus on the
real drug problems.

Seriously people, look at all the methadone clinics we have in
Moncton, and I will guarantee you that most of the violent crime is
related to drugs like crack cocaine and heroine, not pot.

Please don't give me the pot is a "gateway drug" argument because that
is ridiculous and is equal to saying beer is a gateway drug.

I will debate any law enforcement official through a public forum on
this topic.

J. Holmes,

420 Association of Atlantic Canada,

Moncton