2nd September 2021
Saint Lucia begins decriminalization of cannabis
By la1ere.francetvinfo
This first session of the National Assembly of Saint Lucia (September 1) since the legislative elections of July 26, 2021 lasted more than 5 hours. It was lifted before the final vote to amend the drug prevention and abuse law. Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre has announced his government's intention to decriminalize possession of 30 grams of cannabis for personal use.
This reform is the culmination of 20 years of debate. In 2019, the proposal to change the laws came to fruition after the publication of a report prepared by a special commission made up of lawyers, doctors, users and growers. The conclusions were final. The law had to change.
In Saint Lucia, they will soon be allowed to carry 30 grams of cannabis for personal use. It will be illegal to consume weed in public places. The culprits will incur a fine of 470 euros. The consumption of cannabis will be prohibited for minors. In the event of arrest, those under 18 will be followed by drug addiction counselors.
Blank criminal records
The Chamber of Deputies voted to amend the law on criminal records. The Keeper of the Seals, Leslie Mondesir, presented the text to erase the criminal records of those convicted of possession of small amounts of cannabis.
Hundreds of Saint Lucians will be released from prison. They will benefit from a clean criminal record which will allow them to obtain employment more easily and to formulate travel visa applications and pursue studies abroad.
This change in the law will be a second chance for many young people. The text was adopted unanimously.
A first step, according to the Rastafarian movement
For years, the Rastafarian movement in Saint Lucia has been heavily impacted by bans on cultivating and consuming cannabis. Its members have been systematically persecuted by the police.
The community hopes to be able to develop cannabis cultivation in Saint Lucia and be able to market its production within a legal framework.
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