ROADSIDE DRUG TESTS NEEDED

If Ottawa's Pot Plan Proceeds

If Ottawa plans to decriminalize pot, it should also clamp down on stoned
drivers, says Manitoba's justice minister.

Gord Mackintosh yesterday urged the feds to quickly approve proposed
changes to the Criminal Code that would allow police to test drivers for drugs.

"I have made it very clear that if indeed the federal government was
proceeding with the decriminalization of certain amounts of marijuana, for
goodness sake, they have to fast-track legislation to deal more effectively
with drug-impaired driving," Mackintosh told The Sun.

Ottawa is proposing amendments to federal legislation allowing police to
administer the tests to motorists suspected of being impaired by drugs.

A discussion paper on the proposed changes is being sent to provinces,
territories and various associations. They have one month to respond.

Mackintosh said his department should have the document by today.

The suggested amendments could establish a legal drug limit, the obligation
to submit to tests, the possibility of providing urine, blood and
perspiration samples and penalties for refusing to comply.

Tory justice critic Gerald Hawranik said he's in favour of the changes.

"We have to make our roads safer," Hawranik said. "Whether you're impaired
by a drug or impaired by alcohol, you're still impaired."

Although it's illegal in Canada to drive while impaired by drugs or
alcohol, there's no quick roadside test for drug use.

Mackintosh said the changes are overdue.