Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens Primary Industries spokesperson
The Greens welcome the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Tasmanian and New South Wales governments. It's about time.
The MoU on medicinal cannabis trials is wonderful news, especially for Tasmanians suffering from chronic conditions. The agreement says opportunities will be explored for Tasmanian patients to participate in trials is good, and we hope the government does all it can to help those who want to be part of them.
Tasmania was in the position to be the leader in this field, when it was proposed last year. But instead we are left to follow in New South Wales' wake.
It's a great shame that the Health Minister didn't have the courage to support Tasmanian medical cannabis trials when they were on the table last year.
After hold ups and non-commitments from the Health Minister, his government has finally taken the step forward for him.
For the families of Tasmanians suffering from chronic and severe epilepsy, as well as the traumatic effects of cancer treatment, these trials can't come soon enough.