The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs (Assembly) has long recognized the importance of participating in the cannabis industry and has met with Premier McNeil numerous times to discuss how the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia could move forward, in their own communities when it comes to cannabis retail.

Cannabis was legalized to address the black market; but without access to legal cannabis, the black market continues to thrive in our Mi’kmaw communities.

“We’ve been clear to communicate that we support the elimination of the Cannabis black market by ensuring quality-tested products are readily accessible to our community members,” said Chief Terrance Paul, Co-Chair of the Assembly. “With ongoing concerns regarding the health of our community members, we want to ensure proper access to safe products.”

For the Assembly, this is a Governance issue. Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 affirms the right to self-govern, which includes the ability to develop laws that address health, law and order, and control of intoxicants on reserve.

Despite the numerous discussions with the Province, yesterday the Assembly heard that Nova Scotia has already built a plan for moving forward on cannabis edibles – without the inclusion of the Assembly.

“It is always our goal to work in partnership with the government of Nova Scotia,” continued Chief Paul. “As a government, we have to look at the health, safety and welfare of our citizens. ...