'REEFER REFUGEES'

Re: Our Gay Competitive Advantage, Jonathan Kay, Feb. 20.

Mr. Kay makes some excellent points in his column. Sadly, he sullies his
reasoning by slurring so-called "losers" that previously came to Canada for
refuge from draconian U.S. drug policies. These "losers" according to Mr.
Kay include "reefer refugees."

Mr. Kay is right that gays can bring economic positives to Canada. But so
can those in the cannabis industry. It is, after all, a business valued at
more than $12 billion annually. That our government chooses not to take
advantage of that economic boon, but rather allows it to fund organized
crime, is illogical and dangerous social policy.

From the liberal viewpoint, Mr. Kay should realize that those who enjoy
cannabis are entitled to be treated with respect and equality -- just like
those who prefer same-sex relationships.

From the conservative view, bringing the cannabis industry into the
mainstream will civilize the industry and reduce the influence of organized
crime in our society. Either way, legalizing and regulating the business is
a positive for all Canadians.

Kirk Tousaw, Vancouver