Kirk Tousaw's blog

Why "potential" danger is a residential area may catch even small, safe, production sites

My recent discussion of the possible impact of Bill C-15 stirred up some discussion about whether I'm overstating the risk to small producers in residential areas.  Specifically, at least one thoughtful commenter remarked that I went "much too far" in suggesting that the aggravating factor "the production constituted a potential public safety hazard in a residential area" would broadly apply to most, if not virtually all, production in residential areas.  Because this issue is critical to understanding just how pernicious this legislation is, I wanted to make a detailed reply.

Disclaimer:

Vancouver police say they stumbled on these ecstasy pills while investigating a report of a home invasion. (Vancouver Police Department)

I urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to reject the Committee Report as a prelude to rejecting the Bill entirely.  I know this would be an unusual action for the Senate.  Most legislation sent to you by your colleagues in the House of Commons is approved.  But if there were ever a time for the Senate to fulfill its traditional role as the body of sober second thought, this is that occasion.

Bill C-15 imposes mandatory minimum jail sentences for a variety of CDSA (Controlled Drugs and Substances Act) offences including the sale and production of cannabis.  It also raises the maximum penalty for producing cannabis from 7 years to 14 years.  This article will focus on the impact on cannabis producers and distributors, though we should be aware that the negative consequences of this Bill will affect all Canadians.

A two-day crackdown in Abbotsford's downtown core has resulted in the arrests of seven males and one female with ties to the Red Scorpions.

Abbotsford Police Const.  Ian MacDonald said more arrests are expected in the coming days.

Beat and bike squads spent Wednesday and Thursday targeting drug lines and dealers - mainly involved in dial-a-dope operations - downtown and in the areas near Ravine Park and Abbotsford Collegiate.