Call to Action
Edmonton Police Service
actions on vaping
Four of Edmonton Police Service (EPS) core values:
Respect – Treating others as we would like to be treated.
Accountability – Responsible for our own decisions and actions.
Integrity – Doing the right things for the right reasons at the time.
Community – Respect and honour the diverse communities that we are Dedicated to Protect and Proud to Serve.
A concerning issue with EPS
On May 30, 2019, EPS drafted a letter titled "Edmonton Police Service Vape Shop and Nicotine Compliance Letter" which states "Nicotine heated in e-cigarettes and vape juice is considered a tobacco product."
Further in this letter they quote the Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Act of Alberta in regards to the display of tobacco and applied it to the display of eliquid containing nicotine. The letter quotes the Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Regulation in regards to the prohibition of sale of flavoured tobacco and applied it to the sale of flavoured eliquid with nicotine.
The last page has been signed by a constable and the owner of the vape shop was given until July 12, 2019 to conceal or remove said products. Failure to comply can result in $100,000’s in fines.
Here’s the problem
In May 2018, the Government of Canada brought into legislation the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act which clearly defines vaping as a non-tobacco product.
The problem is that the Edmonton Police Service, is ignoring this federal law and violating the rights of the store owner, by preventing them from supplying harm reduction to adult smokers in the community they serve.
What can we do?
If we each do something small, we can make a difference!
In the next section find tools, resources and links to participate.
Teaching tools
Right click on the Shareables below and save them to your phone or hard drive.
Then use them to quickly educate others on the subject.
Utilize VAEP’s learning resources.
Attach documents to your correspondence.
Printable business card for vape shops.
Hand these out to your customers so they can advocate for your business and educate your community.
Some preparation
Here are links to help you communicate effectively and to help you find the right person.
Tips to write effectively
Here are some guidelines to making sure your voice is heard when you write a letter or email
tips on effective communication
Here are some guidelines to helping you deliver your message when having a conversation.
Talk to your elected official
If you are an Albertan, follow this link to find your Minister of Legislative Assembly.
Government agencies that fund or are responsible for police activities.
Email, write or call government overseers and make them aware of how EPS is adversely effecting law abiding citizens.
B. Sweeney, Justice & Solicitor Gen
“Leads a fair and innovative justice system, ensures effective policing and supports victims of crime.”
Jason Thomas Kenney, PC, MLA
The Premier of Alberta has a reputation for being very supportive of business.
Edmonton mayor, don iveson
“As our largest operating expense, policing cost and prevention strategies are key points of discussion…”
Direct oversight of Edmonton Police Service.
You have only one option to file a complaint with those that oversee the police activities.
edmonton police commission
“Inspiring trust and innovation in policing and community safety through effective oversight”
Civil liberties groups
These agencies were set up to protect the rights of Canadians and Albertans.
Canadian constitution Foundation
“We protect the constitutional freedoms of Canadians through education, communication and litigation.”
Canadian civil liberties Assoc.
“CCLA fights for the civil liberties, human rights, and democratic freedoms of all people across Canada.”
Rocky Mountain civil liberties assc.
“RMCLA focuses on state conduct, particularly (but not limited to) an affirmative action or omission by a state actor (e.g. police)…”
Extra information
The letter in question
