How do you feel about the Trudeau government’s plan to legalize marijuana in 15 months, on Canada Day, 2018?
Jake Wiles
Lambton College student
Legalization and the controlled sale of marijuana will generate 
revenue for governments to spend on other things. What’s more, it will bring with it both recreational and medical benefits for citizens, he said.
“I think it’s a good idea. It’ll put money back into the economy.”
Maria Daza
Lambton College student
Said she’s torn. On the one hand legalization will bring with it more restrictions and control, which is good. But she’s also concerned about the potential for greater abuse and the long-term health impacts that would bring down the road.
Dave Chamberlain
Lambton College professor
He’s concerned legalization is nothing more than a political move by the Trudeau government, which makes him fearful that it won’t be implemented properly.
“Alcohol is legalized, and I’m not sure that we’re really on top of that one,” he said.
Ray Pettigrew
Paramedic
As someone working on the front lines, he’s concerned about the potential of increased health-care costs. Drugs and alcohol have an impact on a community, and greater marijuana use could become a larger factor in emergencies. Nor is he sold on the promised tax benefits.
“I’m not sure it’s really where we want to go,” he said.
Melanie Dacunha
Sarnia
Said she has seen the effects of drug abuse in her community, but added that she understands that when used for medicinal purposes marijuana can be beneficial. It helped a close family member during his final days, she said.
Taylor Lalonde
Sarnia
Lalonde acknowledged marijuana’s medical benefits but has known it to become addictive for some users. She believes some users claim to use it for medical reasons without actually needing it.
“Recreationally, I think it needs to be controlled,” she said.