Tobacco.org

Lawyer against anti-smoking legislation 

Newfoundland’s proposed legislation to recoup health-care costs from tobacco companies for smoking-related illnesses will create a “kangaroo-like court” if it is passed, an Ontario lawyer fears.

“I think this bill sets some very dangerous precedents in the way it changes the common law,” said Karen Selick, who has also spoken out against similar legislation in British Columbia.

And while she’s not a smoker or a lover of tobacco companies, she admits Imperial Tobacco is paying for her visit to Newfoundland to address the special House of Assembly committee reviewing the bill.

“I’m speaking as a private citizen who’s concerned about this issue, although I was contacted by Imperial because they know of my views. They’re paying my way there, but I’m not representing them,” Selick said.

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