COOPER'S COLUMN OFFENSIVE

I take great offense to Dana Cooper's opinions regarding marijuana. First
and foremost, regardless of the harm factor (which our Senate suggests is
low), it is about personal choice and personal autonomy.

Presently, you can buy marijuana just about anywhere in Canada more easily
than you can buy a pack of cigarettes. Wouldn't you prefer there was a more
controlled method of distribution of pot to ensure it will not as easily
fall into the hands of kids?

The reason why this issue continues to resurface is because over half of
all drug charges in Canada are for marijuana. Millions of dollars are
wasted selectively enforcing these laws from coast to coast. This is not
how to control a substance, it is chaotic. Over half of Canadians are in
favour of decriminalization.

Persons like myself are fed up with the government intervening in our
personal, educated choices. I am a hard-working tax-paying citizen of this
country who demands freedom. I refuse to be criminalized for marijuana use.

Barry Carvish, Victoria, B.C.