To the editor,
Re: Legalized marijuana will be a gateway drug, Dec. 21.
A recent letter pointed out concerns about the ‘gateway’ theory that cannabis use leads to addiction to harder drugs. This theory has been debunked, and, in fact, there is evidence of addicts using cannabis as an ‘exit’ drug, helping them to overcome their addiction.
I’d like to reassure the writer that many of his concerns about cannabis legalization have no basis in reality. Providing legal access to cannabis eliminates many of the dangers of accessing it illegally. He spoke of drug dealers, while legalization, done properly, would put these illegal dealers out of business.
Our governments have taken a diligent approach to legalization. The federal task force did an excellent job of listening to input from a great variety of sources, and made careful, thoughtful recommendations in their extensive report. Our provincial government sent representatives to American states that have already legalized to learn about potential problems and best practices..
Glenda Barr, Lantzville
To the editor,
Re: Legalized marijuana will be a gateway drug, Dec. 21.
I’m very concerned about the Canadian government legalization of pot across this country coming up this year. There has been connections with mental health issues with the regular use of the plant. When there has been support for smokers to get off cigarettes why are they promoting another product that will be addictive and harmful?
Unfortunately in Nanaimo there have been many deaths due to the use of drugs and opioids. As a country blessed with many resources we should be promoting health and fitness and good nutrition. You just have to see all the lost souls in the downtown that lives have been ruined because of them.
Glenn Stevens, Nanaimo
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author and do not reflect the views of Black Press or the Nanaimo News Bulletin. If you have a different view, we encourage you to write to us or contribute to the discussion below.