Time for Government to Approve Cannabis Trial while MLCs Examine Bigger Picture

While it is very encouraging to hear Treasurer Gutwein indicate that the Hodgman Government may now have an open mind on medical cannabis, it needs to be understood that a medical cannabis trial at UTAS could proceed without waiting for the Legislative Council inquiry to finish its work, Greens Health spokesperson, Cassy O’Connor MP said today.

“The Terms of Reference for the Legislative Council inquiry relate to broader questions about the efficacy and safety of medicinal cannabis and the potential establishment of a medicinal cannabis industry in Tasmania,” Ms O’Connor said.

“This is a big picture inquiry and it will take a number of months to gather submissions, call witnesses to give evidence, and to report its findings. With the stroke of a pen, Health Minister Michael Ferguson could approve a secure trial at UTAS to begin in the near future. He doesn’t need to wait for the Legislative Council Committee to finish its important work.”

“The New South Wales Premier, Deputy Premier and Opposition Leader have voiced support for medicinal cannabis use on compassionate grounds, with legislation likely to be debated in NSW this year.”

“A new national ReachTel poll also shows strong majority support for the legalisation of medicinal cannabis. The momentum of public support will not subside, and can only grow.” [1]

“Tasmania, with its internationally regarded poppy industry, is the ideal location for a scientific trial at UTAS. We risk losing an early mover advantage.”

“Minister Ferguson can fix that with the stroke of his Ministerial pen and ensure Tasmania is at the forefront of this important area of medical research,” Ms O’Connor said.

[1]: https://www.reachtel.com.au/blog/7-news-national-poll-21july2014
Question 8:

Do you support the legalisation of cannabis for medical purposes?

Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Health spokesperson