Pubdate: Fri, 17 Oct 2003
Source: Winnipeg Free Press (CN MB)
Copyright: 2003 Winnipeg Free Press
Contact:  http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/502
Author: Chris Buors

TIRED DRIVERS MORE OF A MENACE

Re: Manitoba targets drug-impaired drivers (Oct. 2). Where is Justice 
Minister Gord Mackintosh's evidence that cannabis-impaired drivers are 
causing havoc on the roads?

Mackintosh ought to read the Nolin Senate Report, Chapter 8, on driving 
under the influence of cannabis. The report says cannabis users slow down 
and adjust for conditions. Cannabis users are safer drivers than those high 
on life, concluded the Senate report that was based on peer-reviewed 
driving studies from around the world. Does the minister intend to have 
police hand out merits to drivers they catch using cannabis or go pills?

Temperance, prudence, justice and fortitude are the four cardinal virtues 
test that every law ought to be required to pass. Fortitude is the strength 
to deal with the truth no matter how brutal or ugly. Anybody who ever 
smoked a joint and played a video game knows the impaired driving 
accusation of Mackintosh is a lie. Mackintosh would save more lives and 
gain more credibility convincing people not to drive when they are tired. 
Didn't have a good night's sleep and there you are behind the wheel on your 
way to work? You are more of a menace on the road than a rested person who 
just smoked a joint right beside you.

CHRIS BUORS

Prairie Region Organizer Marijuana Party of Canada
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman