From: The Hamilton Spectator
Ontario’s latest declaration of war against contraband tobacco is a combo of bluster and desperation.
This the third time in four years the governing Liberals have burbled about cracking down on illegal tobacco sales to help fight revenue shortfalls.
So far, it’s been a failure with a capital F.
Despite higher tobacco taxes, tax revenue from smoking continues to tumble while unlawful cigarette sales continue to bloom, fostering criminal activity and youth smoking.
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What we do know is the RCMP estimates there are some 175 criminal gangs involved in the illegal trade. And it’s a safe bet “buttleggers” aren’t asking customers for proof-of-age before taking their money. Stamping out illegal sales would not only fight crime but could help curtail underage smoking.
