It is the view of Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Jemaine Figueira that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is in bed with criminals. He said as much this morning as he made his contribution to the debate on the motion for leave to be granted for the presentation of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic substances (Control) Bill which was taken to the House by Opposition MP, Sherod Duncan.
Figueira told the House that the PPP has no interest in removing custodial sentencing for those found in possession of small amounts of marijuana. The Lindener said that this is because it is not something that will be supported by a section of its support base. It must be noted that “small amounts,” in the context of Duncan’s bill, is some 500grams, over a pound.
Figueira said that instead of allowing the use of marijuana, PPP prefers to support the cocaine industry. Figueira noted that in just a five-month period under the PPP government, over 30,000 tons of cocaine was exported.
He said that there continues to be a delay to analyze the scans from the container with scrap metal and cocaine.
Figueira said that the delay is supported by the PPP because it does not want to hurt its investors who enjoy profitable exportation to Europe.
The MP said that meanwhile, young people from areas like Buxton, Agricola, Albouystown, and Linden are demonized for possessions of small amounts of marijuana. He said that these persons, who are quite often first-time offenders, are then placed with hardcore criminals. “These young lives go down the drain for a $300 spliff.”
He added, “The small man continues to be used as scapegoats for justice while the European exporters get free reign.” The MP implored the PPP to support the small man for a change, “The small guys will benefit from the passage of the bill.”
