From: The Montreal Gazette
By Christopher Curtis, THE GAZETTE
MONTREAL — For the first time in its existence, Kahnawake’s tobacco industry will cede power to an elected commission charged with imposing regulations on the manufacturing and sale of aboriginal tobacco.
The Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) published a draft law last week that would create a commission to oversee every aspect of the industry. Not unlike a provincial liquor board, the commission has the power to revoke a company’s tobacco licence if it does not comply with regulations and standards.
For years, the tobacco industry thwarted attempts at regulation. But amid a renewed crackdown by the RCMP and federal government, tobacco traders are looking to legitimize their business in hopes of avoiding future conflicts with police.
