Many Islanders will applaud the move, arguing the RCMP should be chasing “the real criminals.” 

I’m not one of them.

There’s a growing body of scientific research showing tobacco is a potent gateway drug. Kids who light up at 12 or 13 are more likely to move on to marijuana and then harder drugs, with potentially devastating consequences.

They are also more likely to be drawn into other illegal activities.

Society has made enormous progress snuffing out smoking among adults, including many young adults. But there is always a new crop of risk-takers ready to become enslaved to a dangerous habit, in school playgrounds and in the neighbourhoods where they live and play. 

Many youngsters cannot afford the cost of a pack of smokes at the corner store, but with a little effort they can find black market cigarettes for much cheaper. 

And my guess is that there will be plenty more available once cuts are made to tobacco enforcement personnel on the Island and elsewhere.

Jim Brown