Thanks to all the witnesses for being here.
Dr. Maté, perhaps I might direct some questions to you first. The Liberal government has asserted that the proper public policy in respect to cannabis is to legalize it to meet a specified set of purposes. The New Democrats agree with the government on this in terms of its being a proper public policy approach.
I want to read you the purposes of why they want to legalize cannabis:
The purpose of this Act is to protect public health and public safety and, in particular, to (a) protect the health of young persons by restricting their access to cannabis; (b) protect young persons and others from inducements to use cannabis; (c) provide for the licit production of cannabis to reduce illicit activities in relation to cannabis; (d) deter illicit activities in relation to cannabis through appropriate sanctions and enforcement measures; (e) reduce the burden on the criminal justice system in relation to cannabis; (f) provide access to a quality-controlled supply of cannabis; and (g) enhance public awareness of the health risks associated with cannabis use.
However, Prime Minister Trudeau has gone on record as explicitly ruling out taking a similar approach to other substances. I'm picking up your comments at the end of your opening statement. In your view, is that a rational position to take?