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An Apology to the Parksville RCMP
By Hempology | April 9, 2002
By MARK RUSSELL
Coordinator, Cannabis Buyers’ Clubs of Canada
Dear Editor, April 6, 2002
I’m writing this letter to offer an apology and to right a wrong.
I owe the Parksville RCMP a sincere apology. Let me explain why.
I opened the medicinal marijuana club last July 23rd . Shortly before opening the club
a story appeared about us in this paper. In the article I said that I had spoken to the local police
and informed them of what we were doing. I had a decent and productive meeting with the officer
and I left the meeting in good spirits. I also thought that the police would leave us
alone if they didn’t receive any complaints, I said as much to the local media.
Unfortunately this statement left certain people with the impression that I didn’t think the police would
carry out their duties or wouldn’t uphold the law in this case because it was a good cause.
Certain people thought I was challenging the authorities, blowing pot smoke in their faces as it were.
It appeared to some that I was showing disrespect for the police, I assure you this was not my intention.
The officer I spoke to at that meeting back in July did NOT at any time during our conversation say to
me that the police would leave us alone if no complaints came in.
If this was the impression I left with all of you then I humbly apologize for any offence taken and I officially retract the statement.
I believed then and still believe that we are working within a legal grey area. We are providing a
much needed service to a select group of people with incurable illnessness or injuries, people whom
Health Canada has left hanging out to dry. Health Canada says that Canadians may use marijuana
for pain and suffering, but they refuse to allow any sick or injured people access to a safe source.
Thus forcing these people to turn to the criminal element to secure their meds.
I can honestly say that I am not a DRUG DEALER by any standards set by this society, and anyone
who thinks differently should come and meet some of our club members. There are over 100 now and
you can pick almost any illness or injury because most of them are represented here, be it cancer or
amputation, glaucoma, MS,or severe migrane headaches. Our youngest member is 18, our oldest
is 78. I do believe we are doing a good thing here and I pray that our federal government will see the
light and repeal these insane marijuana laws sooner rather than later. Hopefully long before I have
to be arrested. Do I want to be arrested? Not really.
Sincerely,
Mark Russell
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