QUESTION PERIOD — Public Safety
Cannabis
September 23, 2025
Senator Moreau, I would like to echo what others have said and congratulate you on your new role.
One of the stated objectives of your government in legalizing cannabis in 2018 was to divert profits away from organized crime and reduce the black market. Yet, according to an intelligence report released by the RCMP this year, the black market still represents at least 50% of sales.
Worse still, the report shows that since 2022, the illegal market has once again taken the lead, benefiting from the lack of regulation. In light of these damning facts, does the government now acknowledge that it has failed to attain its 2018 objective and that the Conservative opposition was right to say that legalization would not eliminate the black market?
Your question raised a fundamental issue: ensuring that we have the tools, the manpower and everything else we need to ensure that the black markets are stopped in this country. It will never be possible to attain the objective of zero black markets, but what the government says —
It’s very difficult to answer a question when you are speaking, Senator Batters. I’m sorry to tell you that because it’s my first Question Period, and I would think that you would listen instead of interrupting when I’m trying to answer the question. It’s a matter of tone and respect in this chamber, and I’m counting on you to be more respectful of this issue. Thank you.
Since you will not recognize the failure of the government, can you at least explain how, according to the Terrebonne police, 35% of licensed producers have criminal records related to drugs and are tied to organized crime? Is this not proof that your system is now completely infiltrated by criminals and is simply legalizing smuggling?
I do not agree with the premise of your question. It’s clear the government is committed to ensuring that the police forces and security in this country are well assured for the benefit of all Canadians.
