CALDER WANTS HEFTY FINES FOR LEGAL POT USE

Local MP Murray Calder doesn't want a free ride for pot users, even if
moderate marijuana use is decriminalized.

Mr. Calder, MP for Dufferin-Peel-Wellington-Grey and a Holstein
chicken farmer, expects considerable debate on a movement to
decriminalize the use of moderate amounts of marijuana. A recent
report by a parliamentary committee suggested decriminalization of
possession of up to 30 grams of pot or about 60 joints.

Mr. Calder said he could support removing possession of 30 grams of
pot from the Criminal Code, but added, users should face hefty fines.
According to the MP the concern he has is that by decriminalizing
possession of moderate amounts it leaves the message that pot use is
alright.

Supporters of the move argue that by relaxing the laws governing
marijuana use Canadian users won't face a criminal record for what
some consider a minor offense. Those same advocates contend that
relaxing the law will free up police to deal with more serious offenses.

"As far as I'm concerned it's not acceptable," Mr. Calder said. "I
want a fine attached to it and a damn good one of $5,000 to $10,000."

The MP, who has never used pot, said in all likelihood moderate
marijuana possession will be removed from the Criminal Code when the
federal politicians debate the issue later this year.

Waterloo-Wellington MP Lynn Myers has not taken a stand on the issue
because he sits on the justice committee for the House of Commons
which will deal with the issue within the next several months.

"I have to go in with my eyes open and ears open and listen to all
sides of the debate," he said in a news interview.