Minister responds to residents" concerns about medical marijuana
What can the government do about licensed medical marijuana concerns? Nothing at the moment.
A recent letter sent from MP Jane Philpott, Minister for Health, addressed the concerns raised by residents of Erin about recent criminal activity at a marijuana production site there.
On Feb. 18 police responded to a break-in still in progress at the Sideroad 17 facility, eventually capturing and charging four masked, armed individuals.
“Please be assured that Heath Canada has heard concerns that the practice of allowing licensed individuals to produce marijuana for medical purposes in their homes posed risks to health, security and safety,” writes Philpott.
She explained the medical access regulations were repealed in 2014, but because of a court interim injunction, individuals who were previously authorized to possess and grow marijuana under the regulations were allowed to continue to do so.
Philpott notes that with the repeal of the regulations, “Health Canada does not have the authority to conduct inspections or to amend, renew or revoke authorizations and licences that were issued.”
Individuals producing marijuana for medical purposes must comply with all applicable federal, provincial and municipal legislation and bylaws, which include building permits for modifications to the site.
Philpott explained the Marijuana for Medical Purposes Regulations will be amended to reflect the court’s February decision.
“The government’s intention is to have completed the amendment process by Aug. 24, 2016 which is the timeframe set by the judgement.”
