There seems to be a renewed push on the Government of New South Wales (NSW) to legalise marijuana for medicinal usage. Kevin Anderson, the Nationals MP for Tamworth is yet to introduce a bill of private member to the Parliament next month. It will call for the legalisation of cannabis allowing possession of up to 15 grams cannabis by terminally ill patients.

It was mentioned by Premier Mike Baird that he was very sympathetic to this move. However, any solution must address the concerns of supply and regulations. But, John Kaye, the Greens MP has called on to the State Government for supporting medical marijuana and to deal with the problems related to supply at a later stage. He further stated that they should make sure that people get access to medical marijuana without any risk of some criminal prosecution.

He mentioned that this means allowing people in a very short span to access marijuana or keep their illegal drugs off the market if they won’t be able to ensure legal supply in the market.

Michael Balderstone, the HEMP Party President stated that they should let the people to grow their own marijuana and license experienced ethical growers.
Lucy Haslam leads a campaign for medical marijuana to be legalised for her terminally ill son. Daniel Haslam, aged 24 was diagnosed with bowel cancer and when offered cannabis he experienced some relief against the harsh effects of chemotherapy. Moreover, Ms. Haslam believed that Mr. Baird understood the push to decriminalise marijuana for medical purposes.

To ABC New England North West, she stated that she honestly believed that Mr. Baird listened to them, he had learnt, and had interest in it and he put himself in others’ shoes. Mr. Baird mentioned that if it was his wife or his kid then he would have done exactly the same thing. She said that this is the most compassionate response so far from any of the senior politicians.

The Premier in a statement to ABC mentioned that he was sympathetic to the views of Ms. Haslam. But, he wanted the supply and regulation concerns to be addressed first. The statement also revealed that during the meeting with Daniel Haslam that he was moved by his courage and determination.