DRUG DEBATE

I agree that any debate regarding drug reform should stick to the
facts. The facts are that Methcon Group is indeed interested in
decreasing drug use amongst teenagers. This is why this self-funded
company put its money where its mouth is.

Stephen McIntyre (Letters, May 16) represents Norml, whose agenda is
pro cannabis. Perhaps this point should be made clear in any public
correspondence on the topic for the sake of transparency.

The report that Mr McIntyre refers to regarding Portugal is written by
the CATO Institute, a libertarian's think tank which has openly pushed
for decriminalising of drugs since the late 1970s.

Another fact. Overall cannabis use in Portugal has in fact increased
since 2001. While there has been reduction in use amongst younger
teenagers, it should be noted that as part of the 2001 reforms
increasing drug education in schools was a key point. This is what we
as a company are trying to promote because we believe that young
people, when presented with unbiased and accurate facts, are more
likely to make wise decisions.

Any legislative changes regarding drugs will not change the chemical
structure and therefore harm caused by the drugs. It's called "dope"
for a reason. I'm yet to hear it called "bright".

Dale Kirk,

Mount Maunganui