Canadians now know when the Trudeau government will start the process of legalizing and regulating marijuana.

Health Minister Jane Philpott told delegates at drug treaty talks at the United Nations, ”We will be introducing legislation in the spring 2017 that ensures that we keep marijuana out of the hands of children and profits out of the hands of criminals,” which was greeted with applause.

Philpott continued Canada’s pot plan ”challenges the status quo in many countries,” but is convinced it’s the best way to protect youth while enhancing public safety.

She says Canada has to do better when it comes to drug policy, noting the Liberals approach will be rooted in scientific evidence to address the devastating consequences of drugs and drug-related crimes.