FEDERAL EFFORTS TO DECRIMINALIZE POT AT ODDS WITH CRACKDOWN ON GROW-OPS

Government Can't Have It Both Ways

I read the comments made by Public Safety Minister Anne McLellan and her
reaction to this tragedy in Friday's Journal ("Crackdown pledged on
marijuana grow-ops"). She says grow-ops have seen an amazing growth and
wants to review if we have the right laws in place to deal with this problem.

I suggest that she look at her government's intentions to decriminalize the
possession and use of the marijuana produced by these grow-ops. I agree
that penalties for running a grow-op should be severe, however
decriminalizing marijuana encourages use and thus demand for it.

If the demand increases, will this not encourage criminals to increase
production? I am quite surprised that McLellan is so "amazed" by the growth
of these operations. It's time for her and her colleagues to wake up!

John Ellens

Sherwood Park