Opposition holds meeting with Cannabis Movement

The executive and several members of the opposition St Lucia Labour Party have held a meeting with a delegation from the St. Lucia Cannabis Movement

The gathering was described by the party as "informal".

The drug policy movement is led by Andre de Caries.

The meeting was to allow party members to receive information and opinions on the latest developments regionally and internationally on the move to make more effective use of the cannabis plant, decriminalisation of the use of the plant, and research into its medicinal value.

In a statement, the SLP said it was “cordial and interactive and there was lively discussion with members of the movement.”

Suggested amendments to the Criminal Code to allow decriminalisation of the use of small quantities of cannabis and suggestions for a new Cannabis Act were also discussed and copies of the proposed amendments distributed.

St Lucia Labour Party leader Philip J Pierre 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 decriminalisation once all aspects including health, education and religious practices have been considered and discussed.

“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 St Lucia.”

Also present at the meeting were Marcus Day, Aaron Alexander and Stephen King.