LET'S NOT PROMOTE BAD HABITS LEGALIZING POT

RE: 'Senators would legalize pot' (Sept. 5).

Canadians will not benefit from legalizing marijuana. The Senate reviewed
reports from far more marijuana users than non-users. We do not have
democracy when a few dictate their demands to the many. Just as with
tobacco and alcohol, it is the average citizen who bears the larger burden
for the health care of those whose habits damage their health.

How can the government properly warn buyers of the negative aspects of
marijuana when these are not fully known? What would we do for the new crop
of marijuana users or those who don't have sufficient cash to support their
habit?

The Homewood Health Centre in Guelph currently has programs for alcohol and
gambling addictions. Should it make room for marijuana and other drug
addicts? Will we be recommending drug addicts become clients of Homewood
and pay for their stay? People advocating more freedom cannot promise that
drug users will be content with marijuana only. How long would it be before
users would want other illegal drugs distributed by our government? It's
like going into a candy store and being told you can only buy the peppermints.

Millions more marijuana cigarettes smoked in Canada will only work against
the health and prosperity of Canadians. We would be better off working to
have fewer habits rather than more.

- -- Gord Truscott, Guelph.