I am advocating for the full nine yards or whole hog, as it relates to marijuana legalization in The Bahamas

By Dennis Dames:

Dear Honorable Brother Marvin H. Dames, the Most Honorable Hubert A. Minnis, the Honorable Carl W Bethel, Q.C., et al:

I have heard much about the Marijuana Commission’s Preliminary report – that so many among you are so very excited about – when there is nothing much to be thrilled with.  It sounds like the typical politically correct proposals which consecutive governments have dealt us – for the past five decades!

The preliminary report seems to wholeheartedly support the medical marijuana business, and the Rasta’s Rights.  But the poor recreational user is still screwed – even if all convicted users in prison are released, and the expungement of every marijuana conviction of the past and present.

All of this while the Police still arrest and charge for marijuana possession; no matter how small.  Soon we will be fined on the spot if caught with weed – no matter how minute.  So, some users might end up in prison, perhaps again - if they can’t pay the fine.

This is madness mixed with pure political correctness.  It is a shallow and dangerous cocktail that the politicians seem to love to serve us because we are politically stupid and mediocre.

Look here brothers and sisters, I am advocating for the full nine yards or whole hog, as it relates to marijuana legalization in The Bahamas.  How much more research is considered politically correct?

Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) debate marijuana medical use... the decriminalisation of small quantities for recreational use ...and the economic benefits that might be derived from marijuana cultivation

Regional Commission to address the issues regarding marijuana use mandated by CARICOM Heads

(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) - Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have mandated that a Regional Commission be set up to address issues identified in relation to marijuana use.
 
This announcement was made by Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Government, Dr. the Hon Ralph Gonsalves during a press conference that concluded the 25th Intersessional Meeting Tuesday in St Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday.

Dr. Gonsalves disclosed that the Heads of Government engaged in intense discussions on the issue. The debate, he said, covered its medical use and the decriminalising of small quantities for recreational use. He explained that the economic benefits that might be derived from marijuana cultivation was also explored.

The Community Chairman expressed that there were also concerns raised during deliberations about the repercussions that would come from legalizing or even decriminalizing marijuana. Particular apprehensions were raised regarding potential public and mental health aspects of its use.

Heads of Government also recognised the need for careful in-depth research of the various implications of the measures contemplated during the deliberations.

The mandated commission is expected to address the issues identified along with any others deemed relevant in providing clear guidance for the tough decisions that will need to be made in relation to this matter. The Commission is expected to report to the Regular Meeting of the Conference in July 2014.

“In relation to this issue we have obviously taken more than baby steps. We want the issue to be addressed in a serious, mature manner” Dr. Gonsalves said.

March 13, 2014

CARICOM