By paNOW

Health Canada consulting with Indigenous Communities on marijuana

Dec 13, 2017 | 1:00 PM

While Indigenous leaders in the East are calling for more consultation and asking for input on the upcoming legalization of marijuana, Health Canada outlined their process for doing so.

On Dec. 12, Assembly of First Nations Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day said he fears for community safety because the federal government was moving too quickly with legalization plans. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau previously said he plans to make the drug legal on July 1, 2018.  

In an email sent to paNOW, officials from Health Canada said the government plans to take part in long-term engagement beyond the introduction of legislation, should it pass through Parliament.

“These discussions are aimed at sharing information and creating an understanding of the government’s objectives with respect to developing the proposed legislation and proposed regulatory approach,” Tammy Jarbeau, a senior media advisor said, adding the government seeks to understand Indigenous perspectives.

She said national Indigenous organizations like the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council and Inuit groups have had opportunities to lend their voice to the discussion – and more are on the horizon. Groups were also invited to provide their input on the proposed federal regulatory approach for the proposed Cannabis Act.

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Jarbeau cited the Partnership Symposium on Cannabis Public Education and Awareness hosted in Ottawa on November 10, where representatives from many national groups participated.

“The Government of Canada wishes to continue to build relationships with Indigenous organizations and experts to develop and deliver effective public education, and, where possible, to support Indigenous groups in leading some of these efforts,” she said.

Bryan.Eneas@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas