The Cannabis reform Bill presented in Parliament this week will “normalise” the drug and lead to increased use, particularly among the younger generations, Caritas Malta and Fondazzjoni Oasi have warned.
In a statement, the two organisations said the Bill, presented in Parliament this week by reforms minister Owen Bonnici, goes beyond what was proposed in the White Paper,
The Bill, they noted, also contemplates the distribution of Cannabis by associations for reacreational use.
Together with other proposals on possession and cultivation, this is another step towards the normalisation of cannabis use, which reinforces the perception among youths that cannabis is not dangerous, and which will lead to an increased use of the drug, they said.
The organisations said the country is at a critical juncture where it is set to decide whether to place cannabis in the same category as alcohol and tobacco. Any step towards the liberalisation of cannabis use will expose society to more harm than good, they warned.
They reiterated their position that, as a society we should never promote or facilitate in a direct or indirect manner the use of cannabis (or other drugs), and to work to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
They noted that the long-term use of cannabis increases the risk of Alzheimer later in life. The acceptance of possession of up to seven grams and four plants, and the concept of consumption at social clubs can lead to increased use of the drug, they said.
Long-term use also affects brain function, particularly those related to memory and intellectual functions, irrevocably.
The normalisation of cannabis use is particularly dangerous for the younger generations, they continued. The use of cannabis by adolescents leads to “devastating” damage on the brain, affecting their development.
They also noted that one out of every ten people who smoke cannabis develop a dependency on the drug.
Former drug addicts may experience a relapse when faced with a more permissible environment, they said, adding that the families of drug users may also face greater hardship.
People who are predisposed to mental health problems will also suffer. These numbers will grow with increased use of the drug.
By legalising cannabis, youths might also move on to the next prohibited and ‘exciting’ thing, they said.
Caritas and Oasi said they hope for a serious discussion where the authorities and politicians weigh in the “price that society will have to pay.”