Antigua and Barbuda: Marijuana consultation to begin on Tuesday

A consultation on the decriminalisation of marijuana in Antigua and Barbuda is due to begin on Tuesday.

The public project is designed to “foster an environment of inclusiveness”, according to a press release from the government.

Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin, chairman of the select committee and also mover of the Decriminalisation of Marijuana via the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill, is extending an open invitation for the public to be part of the consultation.

It begains at 10.30 at the parliament building. and Barbuda to be part of the Consultation which will be held at the parliament building.

Benjamin said that all Rastafarians, community groups, non-governmental organisations, churches, the Medical Association, Teachers Union, Bar Association, National Youth Council, Substance Abuse Department among other organisations are invited to attend and participate.

The Decriminalisation of Marijuana via the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2017 had its first reading in parliament on 28 December.

It was at that time the bill sent to the select committee for further consultation with the public.

Previous consultations were held in 2017 but the Attorney General agreed that more discussion will be “of great benefit to the people in understanding the purpose of the decision being made”.