GOVERNMENT RE-INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO CRACK DOWN ON ORGANIZED DRUG CRIME

OTTAWA, May 5, 2010 – The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Mr. Daniel Petit, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Member of Parliament for Charlesbourg–Haute-Saint-Charles announced that legislation was re-introduced in the Senate today proposing tougher penalties for drug crimes. The bill specifically targets gangs and other organized criminal groups who participate in the illegal drug trade. 

"Illicit drug production is the most significant source of money for gangs and organized crime in Canada," said Minister Nicholson. “This legislation is essential to assist law enforcement agencies in cracking down on drug producers and dealers who threaten the safety of our children, neighbourhoods and communities.”

The legislation proposes mandatory jail time for offenders when, for example:

• The offence of trafficking is carried out for organized crime purposes or a weapon or violence is involved;
• The drug is sold to youth or the trafficking offence takes place near a school or an area normally frequented by youth; or
• The production of the illegal drug constitutes a potential security, health or safety hazard to children or a residential community.

“Our Government’s message is clear: drug lords should pay with jail time,” said Mr Petit. “Canadians can count on us to continue standing up for law-abiding citizens. We will denounce any tactics that may weaken or obstruct this important legislation.”

Backgrounder: Penalties for organized drug crime act

-30-

Ref.:

• Pamela Stephens
  Press Secretary
  Office of the Minister of Justice
  613-992-4621
  
  
• Media Relations
  Department of Justice
  613-957-4207