Dear Editor,

Last Friday, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that random searches by drug sniffing dogs in Canadian high schools cannot take place unless there is already reasonable suspicion that drugs are present.

While the Conservative Government will abide by this ruling, it strongly disagrees with the Supreme Court's decision.

Drug sniffing dogs are a powerful deterrent for drug criminals. They can detect even the faintest traces of drugs from a great distance, even if those drugs are tightly sealed. The Supreme Court's ruling opens up the possibility that the use of drug sniffing dogs in other public spaces, such as airports, could also be challenged in the future. This poses a serious risk.

At a time when more criminal gangs are targeting kids and youth, it is vital that police have every possible tool to keep illegal drugs out of the hands of our youth, while also cracking down on the dealers who are targeting them.

Cracking down on the illegal drug trade requires more than talk. Merely saying that drugs are dangerous and destructive is not enough. Serious actions must have serious consequences.

The Government’s National Anti-Drug Strategy provides a new, balanced approach to fighting illegal drug crime in Canada. It helps parents and teachers educate children about the dangers of drug use and gives those who are addicted the help necessary to deal with their addiction. And it shows zero tolerance to the pushers and smugglers who feed on the most vulnerable among us.

Using Illegal drugs is not a recreational activity – it is a crime, and we must do all we can to keep drugs out of the hands of Canadian youth. Periodic use of drug-sniffing dogs is vital to keeping Canadians safe.

Sincerely,

Brian Jean
Member of Parliament, Fort McMurray – Athabasca