STATEMENT ALARMING

The University College of Fraser Valley grow-op study, funded by the RCMP,
calls B.C. the "Colombia of the North."

This is an alarming statement, considering the U.S. military violence used
in the "War on Drugs" in that country.

Any violence or gang activity related to cannabis in Canada can be
mitigated through an obvious solution -- legalization.

The report blames police powerlessness on lenient sentences and the fact
charges are often dropped or stayed. It neglects to mention that the
sentences are low and charges are being dropped because cannabis
cultivation and smoking are not harmful activities.

Busting cannabis growers is far easier and safer work for police than
catching real criminals. No wonder the police are concerned about
maintaining these jobs.

The report also claims that police are catching just an estimated five per
cent of all the growers in B.C. But this five per cent is not a reflection
of the cannabis community, which is comprised mostly of "ma and pa"
operations -- families supporting themselves and creating the backbone of
the B.C. economy.

This report confirms there is a huge cannabis community in B.C. and that we
are successful, contributing Canadians. This community is here to stay, and
it is time to respect our right and protect our livelihood.

Hilary Black and Rielle Capier, B.C. Compassion Club Society,

Vancouver