Like it or not Canada is going to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.
It is just a matter of time — by July 2018 if you believe the federal government.
However, we remain skeptical if they will be able to meet that deadline as there is still a lot of work to do before that happens.
For example, the provinces have to decide how legal pot will be sold: in government-run stores (not likely in Alberta) or in licensed private stores? If it’s private stores, then municipalities have a lot of decisions to make, zoning being at the top of the list.
The legalization of cannabis also creates a series of new criminal offences through Bill C-45 and Bill 46, punishing those who provide cannabis to youth with up to 14 years in jail and allowing for roadside saliva testing to detect drug-impaired drivers. Drivers with a small amount of THC in their blood would face a fine of up to $1,000, while those with high levels (or those who also have alcohol in their blood) would face up to 10 years in jail.
And while we applaud the government’s efforts in getting tough on impaired driving, we still have our doubts on whether legalization is the correct decision, although admittedly it was inevitable.
That being said we fully support Quadel Growers efforts in bringing a medical marijuana facility to Fort Assiniboine.
Although there is considerable debate how harmful marijuana is — many people, say it is no more or less dangerous than alcohol — we agree with Barrhead’s top cop Sgt. Bob Dodds who says pot is dangerous for the mere fact that it is a gateway drug leading people to do more harmful substances.
However, we also believe the experts, who say cannibis is beneficial when used the right way, under controlled circumstances and under the supervision of a medical professional in the treatment of ailments such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.
For that reason alone, we hope Quadel Growers’ application is successful. When you add in the economic benefits the facility could mean to the area, we believe it is a no-brainer.
Health Canada has received 1,630 applications for licences to grow, or sell medical cannabis as of March 31, and have been approving applications at the leisurely rate of about one a month.
As for those people who don’t agree with the facility or the use of marijuana for medical purposes, we ask them to keep an open mind. Do your own research, go to the inevitable public information sessions the company will have before you come make your decision.
