The Babonneau Multi-Purpose Centre on Monday was the final stomping ground on the public consultation drive by Saint Lucia’s Cannabis Commission. Kicking off last month, earlier stops were made in Castries, Dennery, Soufriere, Vieux Fort, Anse La Raye and Gros Islet. Much like the first public meeting on November 26, just about twenty people showed up for the Babonneau meeting.
Notwithstanding, the show went on with attendees voicing their opinions and concerns. Much of the discussion focused on ensuring that local farmers are protected if and when cannabis is legalized. With the observation of Human Rights Day on December 10, members of the Rastafarian community took the opportunity to call for special treatment. They maintain that the present illegality of their “sacrament”—cannabis—has led to years of discrimination, and infringed on their right to practice their religion.
Following the meeting, the STAR spoke with commission chairman, Michael Gordon QC. He said that without question, it was one of the best meetings held in terms of public feedback. “I think the public is almost unanimously in favour of legalizing,” he said. “The real concern is what regulation you put in place. The commission itself has not come to a conclusion but we hope to do so very quickly.” The commission’s next step will be to submit a report to the government, advising on a legislative and regulatory framework for cannabis. Gordon is hopeful this will be done by year’s end. If not, then by mid-January.
Cannabis Movement chairman Andre de Caires was also in a celebratory mood. Echoing Gordon, de Caires said: “The general consensus after seven meetings is that everyone wants to legalize. So, if the politicians are looking at this as a barometer to determine what to do, then it’s an overwhelming legalize.” It could not be denied, however, that public enthusiasm has been altogether disappointing. De Caires said he would have loved to see more people at the meetings, specifically those opposed to legalization.
He offered this public message: “The government put forward a platform for you to voice your concerns and you have not taken it. If and when the government decides to legalize, please don’t come afterwards and criticize the decision. You can write to the commission at slcconline.org to voice your concerns. We don’t want to be singing to the choir. We want to come up with regulations that the majority of the country will be satisfied with. Let’s protect the vulnerable while reaping the economic benefits!”
