Mr. Speaker, crystal meth is devastating individuals, families and communities in Yellowhead and across the nation. Fortunately, governments are beginning to wake up to this growing social menace.
Last week, ministers from the western provinces and the territories held a summit to tackle the problem. They are taking action and urging the federal government to do its part.
I have pushed this issue with my own private member's bill, Bill C-349, which would allow the RCMP to lay charges for the possession of crystal meth precursors. This persistence has paid off with the government's announcement on Friday of the proposed changes to the federal drug regulations.
A question that remains is how long will it take for the RCMP to have these tools at their disposal?
We also need tougher sentences for meth possession and trafficking, and minimum sentences so that those who destroy lives serve real time.
We need tougher enforcement and stronger laws. Thousands of lives hang in the balance.