Cannabis impacts

Some people who delight in their senior citizenship and feel it gives them a right to lobby for across-the-board legalised cannabis need to include in their publicity and consideration, the serious dangers faced with cannabis use by youth.

Lobbyists’ “senior” status should have them recognise that the human brain does not fully

mature until age 24 (some experts say age 26). I am also a senior citizen who has enjoyed cannabis (overseas of course, so New Zealand law does not apply) and would like it to be available to me to enjoy. However, as a former teacher I have, on many occasions, been concerned by youth who will never achieve a mature brain because of cannabis use.

Even if legislation proscribes its use until age 24 (setting the age at 21 is just stupid), how do Beverly Aldgidge and Kathleen Pattinson plan to persuade youth to understand that because it is legal, it is not ok for everyone, synthetic or otherwise. Cannabis may not kill you or be physically additive but the number of people I know of who are psychotic and mentally disabled is a sad story.

BRIAN GILLESPIE

Cooper’s Beach I would just like to make three points regarding the recreational use of cannabis.

The use of cannabis in any amount will lead to intoxication. You can drink moderate amounts of alcohol and avoid intoxication. The same does not apply to cannabis.

Any form of intoxication can lead to irrational thinking and the misperception of good as bad and bad as good.

The most telling research into the use of cannabis involved a group of university students who were chosen for their ability to perform at a very high level of pure mathematics. Entry into the research programme required they solve very difficult problems.

They were then given a moderate amount of cannabis over a short period of time after which they were asked to solve similar problems. They were unable to. Six weeks later, they were still unable to. Three months later, they were still unable to.

Six months, two years, five years the results were the same: They were never able to perform at their previous level again.

As a former drug counsellor and probation officer in this town, Kaitaia, based on all I witnessed over the years, I stand completely opposed to the legalisation of cannabis for recreational drug use.

MARK O’ROURKE CHAMBERLAIN

Kaingaroa 50 people. It was very moving to reflect the time of 100 years ago to the day/hour.

There was a fine service with RSA leaders, FNDC CEO, Pastor then wreath laying, reveille, benediction and closing hymn. The day had become very warm and staff and helpers got extra chairs and