CRIME BILL: THE FACTS

I would like to correct some of the points made in Stephen Maher's
Sept. 22 column regarding the federal government's efforts to tackle
serious drug crimes in Canada.

Contrary to Maher's assertions, the Safe Streets & Communities Act
does not target "small-time pot farmers". The proposed mandatory
sentences for production of between six and 200 marijuana plants only
apply when the offence is carried out for the "purpose of
trafficking".

Furthermore, for the trafficking of illicit drugs, certain aggravating
factors must also be present in order for the mandatory sentences to
apply, including the use of violence or weapons, selling to youth or
posing a hazard to the health and safety of residential
neighbourhoods. This bill does not target individuals that have
unfortunately become addicted to drugs. Simple possession offences
would not be subject to any mandatory penalties.

Again, the Safe Streets & Communities Act is carefully targeted at
disrupting criminal organizations that supply illicit drugs, which are
without a doubt the most significant source of money for gangs and
organized crime.

Drug producers and dealers who threaten the safety of our communities
must face tougher penalties. Our message is clear: if you sell or
produce drugs, you'll pay with jail time.

Rob Nicholson

Ottawa