WRONG SOLUTION

Re: Dealers targeted (SP, Sept. 26).

Drugs are not a criminal problem. They are a social problem and need
to be treated as such.

Prohibition creates violent black markets, as evidenced by Prohibition
in the 1930s. Justice Minister Rob Nicholson said himself that
organized crime makes most of its money by selling prohibited goods.
Yet, instead of legalizing marijuana as liquor was, he wants higher
penalties. This causes prices to rise due to the risk, even though it
doesn't cost more to grow it. Therefore, suppliers make more money.

A small time marijuana dealer who is arrested will get one year in
jail, minimum. He is far more likely to come out better connected with
other criminals and hardened to life. Drugs don't harm anyone except
those who choose to use them. Why are marijuana and Ecstasy prohibited
while alcohol and caffeine are legal? It's certainly not based on
their addictive qualities or health concerns.

The government's Safe Streets and Communities law will cost Canada
billions in building prisons and enforcement. America has already
shown the world this system will fail.

The only way to stop the supply is to stop the demand. Considering the
hard capitalist stance of the Conservatives, you'd think they'd
realize this.

Stephen Fritz

Saskatoon