Dominica is taking significant steps toward building a sustainable and well-regulated cannabis industry with the establishment of a National Cannabis Advisory Committee. The committee, tasked with guiding the process over the next 12 to 18 months, held its first meeting on Wednesday, April 2.
An official statement from the Dominica Government revealed that the committee is led by former health minister, Dr Kenneth Darroux, and includes a diverse group of stakeholders from the public and private sectors, civil society, and technical fields. The committee is expected to “conduct a thorough assessment of the health, legal, economic, and social implications of marijuana use in the country,” the press statement explained.
As part of its mandate, the committee will also recommend the creation of a National Cannabis Regulatory Commission, which will be responsible for implementing the recommended policies and regulations and supporting the development of a structured and well-regulated cannabis industry in Dominica.
Additionally, the committee will oversee the development of a National Road Map for the cannabis industry, a strategic plan emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and responsible regulation.
The committee will also conduct wide-ranging consultations and public dialogues to gather diverse perspectives and shape a policy framework that reflects the values and priorities of Dominicans, the statement further noted.
In his remarks at the inaugural meeting, Dr Darroux emphasized the importance of grounding the committee’s work in scientific research and cultural context.
“Recent research-driven evidence on the medicinal properties and use of marijuana, especially in the treatment of chronic pain management and neurological disorders, cannot, and I repeat cannot be ignored, and I daresay, must be a central part of the ongoing discussions,” Dr Darroux stated.
“This, coupled with the historic, religious use of the ‘good herb’ by certain religious and cultural groups of our society, lends strong arguments towards its declassification and even decriminalization.”
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Roland Royer, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the sector’s forward-looking development. “The inaugural meeting and launch of the National Cannabis Advisory Committee signals the Government’s further commitment to the process of legislative reform in creating the regulatory and economic environment of the cannabis industry,” Royer said.
“This important responsibility will be carried out by supporting targeted research and development to make cannabis production more competitive and sustainable. It will focus on protecting the environment, boosting the economy, and supporting social well-being. It also means updating policies to keep up with global markets, new technologies, and the growing digital economy,” he added.
The committee’s co-chairs are Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Ryan Anselm and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Kyra Paul.
