PRESS RELEASE

23 November 1999

Gael Donoghue
Health Spokesperson

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE CONDEMNS POLITICAL PARTIES’ DOPE POLICIES

“Cannabis law reforms being touted by most political parties are just plain ‘dopey’,” says Gael Donoghue, Christian Heritage Party’s Health Spokesperson. “Now Act, Labour and the Alliance have joined the bandwagon of the Greens, and NZ First is talking referendum. Also the National Government Police Minister’s flexible attitude in the past in regard to cannabis law has been noted with alarm,” she says.

“Whilst we recognise the ‘industry’ of growing and dealing is getting out of hand and costing much taxpayer money to police, this is no reason to decriminalise cannabis.”

“Because the HFA’s latest figures show 26,000 people dependent on opioids, should we therefore relax the laws on heroin or morphine?” she asks.

“The so-called ‘soft’ drug of cannabis is, along with alcohol, the gateway to greater degradation and the miserable drug culture that is a blight on the youth of our country. The health facts speak for themselves. Cannabis is not a ‘soft’ drug, particularly for young people whose bodies have yet to reach full maturity, and has mental and psychological detrimental effects. The ‘lack of motivation’ syndrome of children smoking cannabis is well documented. These children fail to thrive physically, mentally and emotionally and often go on to waste their lives. Addiction then frequently leads to other criminal activity to ensure ongoing supply of the substance,” she said.

“These political parties know full well the consequences of drug addiction, and I am surprised that they do not also realise the negative effects of further growth in drug dealing. A harder line is required, not a line of least resistance!” Mrs Donoghue says.

“New Zealand voters need to know that the Health Select Committee recommended a review of current cannabis law, and with the statements of the parties to date, the outlook is rather grim should they follow through. Road users also need to consider – do we want ‘stoned’ drivers on our roads as well as drunk drivers?

New Zealand voters should ask themselves whether people who support legalising cannabis for personal use are people they want to represent them in Parliament,” said Gael Donoghue. “The Christian Heritage Party stands firm in again confirming opposition to legalising all illicit drugs including Cannabis.”

Contact: Mrs Gael Donoghue on (06) 347 6000 or (025) 514 980
Party Leader Graham Capill (021) 661 766

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