Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens Primary Industries spokesperson
The Poisons Amendment (Poppy Industry Reform) Bill, debated in parliament today, separates the regulation of the poppy industry between health and primary industries. The Department of Health and Human Services retain manufacture and research, while the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment will provide regulation for production.
The success of the poppy industry in Tasmania highlights the opportunity for a similar unified approach to medicinal cannabis.
Tasmanians who have run out of other options have found relief using medicinal cannabis for many chronic conditions and terminal illnesses. These patients want to know the Hodgman Government is working to formalize the industry.
There are reports the black market for medicinal cannabis has surged since the announcement that the State Government will implement a controlled access scheme.
Patients want access to medicinal cannabis, but no further government information has been forthcoming, so they are sourcing the product illegally.
The poppy industry is a successful, government regulated and supported industry. We hope the Liberals will emulate its success and regulation for medicinal cannabis.