LESS TIME FOR POT, MORE ON METH

Local politicians are focusing on hot-button issues of late, and
illegal drugs are top of mind for both MP Randy White and MLA Randy
Hawes (Maple Ridge-Mission).

Mr. White held a town hall meeting Monday night addressing the "evils
of marijuana" and in particular the federal government's move to
re-introduce Bill-C17 into the House of Commons.

Mr. White is concerned that the proposed changes will send the wrong
message to Canadians - children in particular - that marijuana is not
a dangerous drug.

While we agree that marijuana is still an illegal drug and should be
legislated as such, a majority of Canadians agree that current laws on
simple possession are draconian and serve no one's best interest.

Does this mean we should just turn a blind eye to marijuana grow
operations and drug dealers who profit from the selling and
exportation of the illegal weed? Of course not.

But if, as studies and polls clearly show, a good majority of
Canadians want change in the law, why shouldn't government investigate
the situation and act accordingly?

In the meantime, we continue to hope the rhetoric on both sides of
this contentious issue can be toned down so Canadians can get an
honest look at the topic and make up their own minds.

We would like to see proponents pro and con stick to the facts and
leave the storytelling to 'B' movie Hollywood script writers.

As for Mr. Hawes' campaign to outline the myriad problems our
communities face with crystal meth, the timing of a conference to
establish the best plan of attack - this week's Western Canadian
Summit on Methamphetamine - couldn't be better. Equally vital is the
Meadowridge Rotary Club's work to battle the problem, a problem has
taken more than one life in our community.

Drug abuse is a huge problem in our community, but crystal meth should
be our number one priority. There are only so many resources available
and we have to focus them on the biggest threat.

There is a considerable difference between mellow puffers of pot who
can barely get off the couch, and speed freaks with the unimaginable
energy, drive and will to destroy all that is good in us.