DRUG WAR HAS COLLATERAL DAMAGE

Re: "Weaker pot low chokes B.C. Minister," Dec. 12.

The article quotes Solicitor General Rich Coleman as saying "I want to go
out and fight the war on drugs because it's hurting our kids ..."

He is absolutely correct. The war on drugs is hurting our kids, by
artificially creating a lucrative market for drugs which motivates
pushers to entice our children and grandchildren into drugs. My
granddaughters can purchase either pot or crack more easily than
nicotine or alcohol.

We need to not only fight against, but end, the war on drugs before it
does more damage to our kids -- as well as to our elders because of the
home invasions to get the money for an expensive fix.

In European countries practising harm-reduction methods, the average
age of addicts is rising. In North America, where the war on drugs is
being waged, the average age of addicts is dropping rapidly.

Yes, the war on drugs if very much "hurting our kids."

J. McRee (Mac) Elrod,

Metchosin.