Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2017-03-28

The government is planning ways to allow illegal drug users to reintegrate into society,

Premier Lin Chuan says the government is planning ways to allow illegal drug users to reintegrate into society, while punishing those who make, traffic and sell drugs. (CNA photo)

while punishing those who make, traffic and sell drugs. That was the word from Premier Lin Chuan on Tuesday.

Lin was answering questions at the Legislature. DPP lawmaker Yeh Yi-jin said judges often hand out light punishments for drug offenders, which does little to prevent drug-related crimes. Lin said in response that punishing users too severely is not the best way to help them reintegrate into society.

Lin said, “I have also considered [the situation], and I think light punishment and proper guidance are the best ways to rehabilitate an offender. Such a user may already be estranged from their family. Harsher punishment might make it even more difficult for them to reintegrate into society. It is therefore our policy to give severe sentences to those who produce and traffic drugs, but [give lighter punishment] to drug users in the hope they may be rehabilitated.”    [FULL  STORY]