SHANE Rattenbury has welcomed the announcement that the Victorian Labor Government will commence a cultivation scheme for medical cannabis.

“This is an exciting development that shows it is possible to develop a workable model to legalise cannabis for those who are suffering,” Shane said.

“As long as the Federal Government approves the scheme, Victoria will be able to provide Government regulated medicinal cannabis to people who need it.

“I have previously called on the ACT Government to similarly seek Federal Government approval so that it can grow cannabis and operate exactly the same kind of scheme. Unfortunately it has not taken action.

“Nor has it accepted my proposals for interim solutions, that would allow sick people using cannabis to be exempt from prosecution if they use or grow a small amount of cannabis themselves.

“I am hopeful that Victoria’s announcement will unblock some of the resistance we have seen here in the ACT. This should be seen as a source of inspiration for the ACT, and I urge my colleagues to consider legislation in the ACT that would deliver relief for those who are suffering now.

“This is about showing compassion to members of our community who are dealing with chronic or terminal illness.

“Those individuals and families who are suffering should not have to move to Victoria to get the treatment they need to make their lives more bearable and dignified,” said Mr Rattenbury.