BREAKING CANADIANS' COMPLACENCY ABOUT DRUGS

Re: What's Harper smoking?, Oct. 6.

It's no secret that illicit drugs fuel organized crime and foster
petty crime. They also undermine healthy families and safe communities
across Canada.

That is why the government is launching a new national anti-drug
strategy that aims to prevent illicit drug use, treat those with
illicit drug dependencies, and tackle the production and distribution
of illicit drugs. This $63.8-million investment builds on existing
programs worth $385 million.

Our government recognizes that dealing more stringently with the
organized-crime element is only part of the solution to the problem as
it only tackles the supply of drugs. To be effective, we must also
tackle the demand for drugs: this is why two-thirds of this new
investment will be targeted towards prevention and treatment. Our
government also supports and encourages the use of the drug-treatment
courts to deal with low-level offenders who commit petty crimes or
deal small amounts of drugs to feed their habits. Our approach is
compassionate where appropriate and conversely tough where necessary.

As the ministers of justice, public safety and health, we understand
the collaborative effort needed to tackle the problems caused by
illicit drugs. The federal government is taking a leadership role on
this important issue and will be working with key partners, including
the Canadian Centre for Substance Abuse, the provinces and
territories, communities, stakeholders, community groups and
law-enforcement agencies to implement a truly national anti-drug strategy.

Breaking Canada's attitude towards illicit drugs will require huge
efforts. But with a focused and balanced approach to illicit drugs, we
believe Canada will soon be on the road to recovery.

Rob Nicholson,

Ottawa,

minister of justice

Stockwell Day,

Ottawa,

minister of public safety

Tony Clement,

Ottawa,

minister of health