THIS IS THE ERA of calls for the global legalisation of marijuana and exploitation of its economic benefits. At the same time, usage of the drug is condoned in growing segments of Caribbean societies. Many people argue that it should be permitted for use on recreational and religious grounds; others extol its supposed medical benefits. Support for this "natural drug" is becoming the new normal.

Those pushing to decriminalise marijuana advance varied arguments, including the absurd and scientifically unproven, to support their positions. Removing the criminality is also an emotive argument. Yet, what is often overlooked is the harm this drug causes, especially to young people.

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ANY conversation surrounding the legalisation of the drug marijuana must give serious consideration to the impact in could have on the educational system of Barbados. This was the expressed view of Roger Husbands, Director of the Drug Education and Counselling Services Barbados, who unequivocally stated that it would serve the country best to keep the herb illegal.

Husbands told The Barbados Advocate recently that the drug, also referred to as dope, weed or ganja in these parts, had for years been causing problems at schools.

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IT IS NOT a new issue but one which we can no longer let dangle. From Kingston to Kingstown to Washington and Bridgetown, there is clearly momentum in the discussion on whether to decriminalize marijuana and what impact this will have on fighting illegal drugs in our region. It can best be described as the great ganja debate.

The issue of decriminalization of marijuana is a discussion which will create clear divisions; strong support for its usage or total opposition. It is one which not only the politicians must weigh in on, but the judiciary, and the scientific community which must give of their expert opinions based on evidence from well-documented research. Law enforcement officials will also need to speak again to the issue, based on their experiences and knowledge of what has become a lucrative but also violent business controlled by criminals whose actions can undermine a country. We will also want to hear from those in our health facilities and drug treatment centres of their experiences with marijuana users.

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TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA or not was a talking point earlier this week among NATION online readers when police seized a large quantity of drugs at the beach in Fitts Village, St James.

The topic is now being ventilated even more after High Court judge Randall Worrell, speaking at Wednesday's National Consultation on the Anti-Drug Plan, recommended the legalizing of certain drugs for personal use. Some shared their views on this "smoking hot" topic:

Glenn Damon Clarke: "Cannabis oil is currently being used to cure cancer. Why can't Barbados legalize marijuana, employ farmers to grow it and make this cannabis oil, do our own research on this cure, and invite people from all over the world to come here for a full course of treatment?

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