The question of whether or not marijuana should be legalised in the region continues to be a burning issue that has been raging for some years, without a clear and immediate resolution in sight.
The hot topic came to the fore again last month when Jamaica decriminalised the possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use.
That country’s parliament passed a law allowing for the possession of up to two ounces (57 grammes) of marijuana. It will also allow for a licensing authority to oversee the medical and scientific uses of the plant. Caribbean leaders are also grappling with the matter and as such, have formed a committee to examine whether marijuana should be legalised.
This is an issue where emotions can run high, with proponents speaking out about the medicinal value of the plant. However, this must be tempered with solid, scientific evidence, and wide canvassing of views in the region. We also believe any decisions on legalising marijuana must be made after sound, detailed and comprehensive research into the plant itself, as well as deep analysis of the pros and cons of its usage.
We are, therefore, heartened by the assurance from Prime Minister Freundel Stuart during last week’s 26th Inter-Sessional Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government that leaders would not be making “rash, uniformed decisions”.
The reality is our regional governments are duty-bound to ensure that any conclusions made as it relates to this widely debated subject, are not detrimental to the people they lead. Our people must be at the forefront of our minds when making decisions of this nature that could not just only impact on them, but on future generations. Their best interest and welfare must be of paramount importance when dealing with this sensitive issue.
That said, it is also incumbent on our leaders to ensure that Caribbean countries are not left behind in this area of research and development that could bring some financial benefits. What is therefore needed is for the region to invest human and financial resources in this area.
Our leaders must also be encouraged to take the research further than just marijuana, and broaden it to include other indigenous plants which could have some medicinal value.
So while we can expect more debate surrounding the legalisation of marijuana, we caution our leaders across the Caribbean to let good judgement prevail. We also encourage them to refrain from making a hasty decision that could affect the moral fabric of our society in our quest to keep pace with some developed countries which have already ruled on this issue.
In this case, it is better to be safe than sorry.
