PROTECT US FROM DRUGS

Editor, The NEWS:

Re: Many Dangers of Crystal Meth (Letters, Mar. 16).

This letter is in regards to Mr. Randell's letter on the legalization of
all drugs. As I was reading his letter, I felt I was drowning in biting
sarcasm and searching for reason.

I understand that Mr. Randell feels that the legalization of all drugs
makes the most sense and will eliminate the nonsense of trying to prevent
people from obtaining and using drugs through higher costs and scare tactic
advertising. As Mr. Randell provides no proof to support his opinion, I
have to disagree with him.

The heightened taxes and negative advertising on cigarettes that Mr.
Fletcher mentioned are not nonsense. Perhaps it is considered to be a waste
of time and effort, but I am acquainted with several people who have taking
measures to reduce or quit smoking because of costs and the constant
reminder of future health implications. That alone is enough to tell me
that this nonsensea can work.

It also seems that there was a misunderstanding regarding what Mr. Fletcher
was saying. He was indicating that some type of structure has to be
implemented in regards to meth to help deter people from getting involved
with the drug in anyway, be it through using it or supplying components to
make meth.

I do not think that Mr. Fletcher meant that the same measures used in
regards to cigarettes should be placed on meth. Crystal meth is drastically
different from smoking, and has greater health risks, which is likely why
it is illegal. While other drugs such as marijuana have some medical
benefits, crystal meth has none.

Legalizing all drugs in attempts to end the headache of preventing or
trying to prevent drug use would not accomplish much.

There has been a lot of effort put into protecting the community and trying
to keep residents safe and healthy.

Having all drugs legal would likely prove to be a large mistake. Drug
activity would increase, as it would be completely legal to mess up your life.

The last time I checked most of the citizens wanted to improve the
community, not completely derail it. Stop the nonsense. Protect our community.

Dalyce Drummond

Maple Ridge