There’s so much talk because of the Seaway International Bridge Crisis. Our MP states that he can’t discuss much on the record because of National Security issues which most people consider horse puckey, but the reality is that there are a multitude of issues related to the Akwesasne – Cornwall corridor.
So let’s say that at some point the government comes to the table and resolves the bridge issue there still is the largest issue in the area and that is the illegal smuggling of cigarettes into Canada from Native tobacco factories.
Personally I don’t think you’ll ever wipe out smuggling. There’s so much rhetoric and smoke regarding this subject you have to sift through to find the bones of the story. The real issue is that the taxes are simply too high vs the rewards and cost of the product to smugglers and buyers.
To truly fund law enforcement the amounts of monies needed would be massive; not just to catch law breakers, but to process them through the legal system. Nobody wins that way except those that get jobs processing all these tobacco sellers.
To me the better solution would be to lower tobacco taxes in Cornwall. Cut em down to the point where it makes little sense to risk it. This impact would help the local economy by helping local stores survive. Controlling the impact of under age smoking; and save on law enforcement and court costs. It’s not a perfect solution, but it would allow law enforcement to focus on the wider issue and not penalize Cornwall and its area residents.
The spin offs would also spur tourism which would spur employment, and bring all sorts of HST dollars into the government coffers.
Sometimes you have to think outside of the box. Sometimes you have to build the box, and sometimes you have to burn the box. Right now the box we’re using is full of holes and the only ones paying are the taxpayers.
It’s time for some creative thinking that can lead to a better Cornwall.
Jamie Gilcig – Editor – The Cornwall Free News
The Editorial does not necessarily represent the opinions or values of the ownership of The Cornwall Free News or its Sponsors.
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Figured this would be good to add this link on this topic here. My comments on this matter are in the link.
To hell with them all……I think smoking is a filthy habit and should be stamped out! What right do these smokers have to pollute our God-given fresh air? It’s bad enough that we have to share it with them!