AS CARICOM leaders met in Jamaica last weekend to discuss a regional approach to decriminalization of marijuana, Saint Lucia’s main opposition party held an internal dialogue on the issue and called for amendments to the Criminal Code to allow for use of small quantities of marijuana.
According to a press release, on Wednesday 4th July, the Executive and several members of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) held an informal meeting with a delegation from the St. Lucia Cannabis Movement led by Mr. Andre de Caries.
The release said, “The meeting was to allow party members to receive information and opinions on the latest developments regionally and internationally relating to the move to make more effective use of the cannabis plant, decriminalization of the use of the plant and research into its medicinal value.”
The release described the meeting as “cordial and interactive” and noted “there was lively discussion with members of the [cannabis] movement.”
The party statement said the meeting agreed to suggest “amendments to the Criminal Code to allow decriminalization of the use of small quantities of cannabis.”
“Suggestions for a new Cannabis Act were also discussed and copies of the proposed amendments were distributed,” said the statement.
SLP and Opposition Leader Philip J Pierre, commenting on the meeting, thanked the members of the Cannabis Movement for accepting his invitation.
He assured them of his support for “a progressive agenda, commencing with consideration of decriminalization, once all aspects including health, education and religious practices have been considered and discussed.”
Hon Pierre said: “This is part of our Party’s philosophy of inclusion and dialogue with all partners on matters relating to the social and economic development of Saint Lucia.”
Also present at the meeting were Dr Marcus Day, Aaron Alexander and Dr Stephen King.