Better access for proprietors

Last week the Ontario government released its heavily criticized plans for distributing cannabis once legalization occurs in July 2018.

Have the critiques of this plan influenced the P.E.I. government in any way? Ontario’s plan is similar to what we would likely expect of P.E.I.

Does the province plan to set up a new control commission for cannabis if they are to control distribution?

Or would this fall under the Liquor Control Commission?

I know that there is currently a survey out for Islanders to provide input into how the P.E.I. government distributes cannabis and addresses public and health concerns as well. I’ve seen little promoting this survey which closes at the end of the month.

While it seems that the provinces thus far have decided to handle cannabis like they do liquor, it’s a very different product — for example it is a medicine for many people and the black market for cannabis is large.

With the meetings happening in Ottawa this week around Bill C-45, I expect we’ll see further leadership from the federal government on what legalization looks like; in the mean time, time is short for the province to be ready for July 2018, and not being ready will just continue to support the black market.

Personally, for distribution I would like to see opportunity for entrepreneurs to operate within strict guidelines from the feds and province.

This would not only provide opportunities for Island businesses, but would potentially provide better access from dedicated and knowledgeable proprietors.

Nick Flood,

A former Cornwall resident, now living in Calgary