Feb 10 - Hassan-Nahon Files Motion To Discuss Using Cannabis For Medicinal Purposes

Written by YGTV Team on 10 February 2017.

Independent MP Marlene Hassan-Nahon has today filed a motion to discuss the use of cannabis derivatives for medicinal purposes.

She was featured on GBC’s Viewpoint last night where she was in favour of using the drug for medical use.

In her motion, Ms Hassan-Nahon will highlight the use of other opiates and sedative drugs that are already prescribed in Gibraltar, adding that there are a great number of patients in Gibraltar who suffer from ailments which could be treated successfully with cannabis.

She will highlight that Sativex is already prescribed to a limited number of patients, but hopes for comprehensive cannabis programme so that sufferers can obtain different variants of cannabis medicine, whether it is Sativex, the flower itself, oil extractions or any other variations.

Ms Hassan-Nahon hopes to see medical professionals within the GHA prescribe medical cannabis for needy patients immediately and without delay, that they receive the expert training as to how and when cannabis-medicines can be prescribed and that the proper legislative framework for a proper cannabis programme be introduced and provided by the Government of Gibraltar.

Upon filing the motion, Ms Hassan-Nahon said: “My message is simple. There are hundreds of medical studies around the world which demonstrate that cannabis can be successfully used in the treatment and relief of a number of illnesses.

“In Gibraltar there is no need to reinvent the wheel, and it feels we are procrastinating and casting the ball into the long grass by 'consulting' more experts, possibly because there is a political fear of the taboo surrounding cannabis.

“What we really need to do, for the sake of the many patients who are suffering whose lives can be improved almost overnight, is take political courage, and legislate NOW so our medical professionals can do the right thing and help these people.

“The experts have already done their job. Now it's time for politicians to do theirs.”

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