Pickle’s Perspective

This article was published in the Winnipeg Free Press.

Wikipedia describes the age of majority as:

The age of majority is the threshold of adulthood as it is conceptualized (and recognized or declared) in law. It is the chronological moment when a child legally ceases to be considered a minor and assumes control over their persons, actions and decisions, thereby terminating the legal control and legal responsibilities of their parents or guardian over and for them.

In Manitoba, the age of Majority is 18.  This means, an 18 year old may do the following.

• Cast a ballot in an election
• Smoke
• Join the army
• Apply for a license and if successful, purchase firearms and ammunition
• Obtain a Class 1 through 4 Driver’s license
• obtain employment in hazardous work (without parental consent)
• obtain full time employment (without parental consent)
• Oh yeah.. Consume alcohol

Pardon me, does any one else think this is crazy?  First off.  If you’re an adult shouldn’t you be treated like one?   In my opinion, if you wanna get plastered at 18 that’s your choice.  These adults make the choice and need to understand the consequences.  We need to stop taking away rights from people because we want to believe that they can’t make their own decisions.