I do not support (D Carey Weekend Sun, June 19) the view that legalising cannabis, will to, quote: 'create a legal and verifiable marketplace, and will take away the gangs' tax-free money”. The reality is, the gangs and other growers, illegal or otherwise, will simply sell a more potent product at a discounted price by undercutting proposed taxation rate 25 per cent. Therefore, creating an open market rather than abolishing the black market for cannabis.

The writer also goes on to say, economists (NZIER) expect up to $490 million into NZs economy, this may be true. However, there are costs behind legalising a hazardous, harmful and addictive substance, such as cannabis. In addition to the dollars, there are also the emotional and social costs, which cannot be overlooked.

Look no further than our road statistics for young drivers, accidents involving alcohol and drugs is a concern to us all. And our health system, particularly mental health is severely over stretched as it is. Our young people have enough trouble with alcohol now, it would be naïve to believe they would be more responsible when it comes to having an uncontrolled supply of cannabis available 24/7.

B Porter, Welcome Bay