ACTIVIST EMERY ON POT CRUSADE

MONCTON, N.B -- An activist campaigning for the legalization of
marijuana was arrested yesterday after lighting up in front of an RCMP
detachment in Moncton. After spending about 20 minutes preaching to
the mainly converted, former Londoner Marc Emery, now of Vancouver,
fired up a large bong and within seconds, was arrested for possession
of a controlled substance.

"Marijuana is a wonderful substitute for all things," Emery told about
30 onlookers shortly before the arrest.

"I've been smoking for 23 years. People should be growing it in their
backyards."

Emery said marijuana provides a certain enlightenment alcohol and
other drugs don't.

"Passing a joint is a signal of universal peace. Is there anything
wrong with feeling good? Something that's good for you, you should be
doing all the time."

RCMP Cpl. Terry-Lee Kennedy said police will interview Emery before
deciding whether to ask the Crown to lay charges.

Emery was in Moncton as part of his Summer of Legalization Tour. He
publishes Cannabis Culture magazine, runs a store that sells marijuana
seeds, and heads the B.C. Marijuana Party.

While he wasn't arrested during a similar protest in Halifax on the
weekend, Emery was charged with possession in Winnipeg and Regina.

The federal government hopes to have its new marijuana legislation
passed by year end, making possession of up to 15 grams of pot --
enough to roll about 15 to 20 joints -- a minor offence that would not
involve a person getting a criminal record.