Letters to the editor: We don't need more people using cannabis

People using cannabis could cause headaches for employers, says a reader. Photo / File

Regarding the cannabis referendum, Helen Clark, suggests "most people don't use it very often" (News, July 9).

Believe me, they will when it's freely available. The point I wish to make is that we don't need more people using cannabis.

It is well proven that they will be the ones who cause irresponsible incidents and make poor decisions that affect other people in the workplace.

Our whole focus must be centred on the employers and their responsible workers who will be affected by the users, who turn up on the job with cannabis in their system.

Employers may have to test their workers for drugs every week, and in heavy industry, every day - a loss of productive time and a considerable cost for any company.

It also creates a lack of trust between worker and employer.

Dismissal is the only option where drug use causes danger or inefficient achievements for fellow workers.

Death or injury is common in heavy industry. Even in light to medium industry, these hazards exist.

As for putting cannabis "in the control of responsible government agencies acting in the interests of the public good", this project is just too big for them to handle and is unaffordable for our health budget.

Unpleasant facts will be revealed when the increased costs of cannabis-related mental healthcare needs are finally published.

So do the right thing for your family, your employer and your workmates - vote no to recreational cannabis. (Abridged)

Russell McKenzie
Papamoa

headline

Further to the article in the Bay of Plenty Times (News, July 8), do ratepayers know the cost of the new council-controlled rubbish/recycling scheme will be an added item on your rates and not included in your current rates charge?

This will make Tauranga rates among the most expensive in New Zealand.

TCC can afford to include it in your rates, in my view. (Abridged)

Philip Brown
Papamoa Residents and Ratepayers Association chairman

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