As the debate on the legalization of Ganja rages on most proponents are calling for legislation to allow for the development of a medical marijuana industry in Jamaica.
Late last year the Jamaican parliament decriminalized the use of small quantities of ganja for personal use but many believe the government did not go far enough, in contrast to what has been taking place in the United States, whereby some 14 states have legalized the weed.
The march towards the legalization of marijuana here and in the US was sparked by a report by CNN chief medical correspondent, Sonja Gupta, which demystified many of the myths about marijuana use that have shaped the opinion of the public and enabled decision makers to maintain the status quo for years.
Businessman Joe Issa, in a comment to the North Coast Times about the economic and health potential of a medical marijuana industry for Jamaica, says“it could turn the Jamaican economy around…it could generate significant income for farmers, processers, wholesalers and retailers, employment for people and taxes for the government.”
There have been several articles and conference presentations promoting the legalization of Marijuana and Issa says, “A good look at the scientific evidence that brought to light the harmful effects of Marijuana needs to be researched properly as there is an increase in the number of states that are legalizing the growth and use of Marijuana.” In the vast US market, over-the-counter sales of pure marijuana and its medical form appears to be booming, leading Issa to posit: “Jamaica may have been left behind in the space and perhaps may have to import ganja from the US in the future.” Unlike the US, Jamaica like most small-island economies have few natural resources to depended upon to provide jobs for its people and the means to enjoy the fruits of their labour, such as good health, education, roads, water, electricity and wastes disposal, among others.
“So when a once-in-a-life-time opportunity comes along, such as the economic potential of legalized medical marijuana, Jamaica must grab at it and don’t let go…nurture it, protect it and administer and monetize it in a responsible legal manner and according to international law and agreements…it may be the country’s economic legacy,” says Issa.Studies show that 70% of Americans believe marijuana must be legal for medical purposes, while 53% support the drug being given the same recognition as alcohol, and most of them say it should be accessible to adults.
