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The unprecedented mass street shootings in southeastern Toronto this week are a direct result of drug prohibition laws among other issues.  It is counterintuitive, but such laws contribute to the lawlessness evidenced by those carrying guns to a neighbourhood barbeque.  “It’s just like the days of alcohol prohibition in the 1920’s and 30’s in the States,” said Allen Small, leader of the Ontario Libertarian Party, “drug prohibition has lead to the gang violence we see today.  Why else would individuals be carrying guns to a barbeque?”  

Calls for stricter gun laws, including Toronto City Council’s effort to maintain the Long Gun Registry, have no impact on individuals who already operate outside the law. And new laws that are more stringent promised by Premier McGuinty and Mayor Ford will have little effect.  “No one that opens fire in a crowd of 200, cares much about laws” continued Mr. Small, “moreover the issue has many layers of complexity.”  

Single mothers have raised many of those involved in drugs, gangs, and guns, with no father figure around to provide discipline and direction.  Our system even provides incentives for young women to choose to keep a baby without support from the father.  The system also teaches that individuals will be protected from the consequences of their actions, such as dropping out of school.  “Our society has changed substantially,” said Jim McIntosh, Treasurer of the Ontario Libertarian Party.  “Fifty years ago if a girl got pregnant, either the father would step up to his responsibility, or the baby would be adopted by a family able to provide a good home for the child.”  

Of course, the fact that the present Ontario government has mismanaged our economy makes it difficult for young people to get that first job on the road to economic self-sufficiency.  The Ontario Libertarian Party believes that the force of government must be limited to protecting the lives, liberty, and property of peaceful citizens.

The Ontario Libertarian Party has been a registered political party since 1975. We advocate property rights, limited government, and voluntary interactions within communities between individuals and groups.

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