Attorney makes case for Cannabis legalization

Henry Shillingford wants Cannabis legalized in Dominica
Henry Shillingford wants Cannabis legalized in Dominica

An attorney here is making a case and is pushing for the legalization of Cannabis commonly known as Marijuana, saying present laws are absurd.

Henry Shillingford told a panel discussion at the Dominica State College on Tuesday that he has been using ‘the herb’ since he was 13 and has seen both sides of the law.

According to Shillingford, there is some fundamental misunderstanding of Cannabis even at the “highest levels.”

“And this is because there have been a great amount of ‘miseducation’ and this can just be a beginning of a re-education of society,” he said of his quest to make the drug legal.

Shillingford argued that over the years many untruths have been propagated about Cannabis, such as it makes people kill each other, it makes people lazy and see little green men, is a ladder drug through which one graduates to higher drugs, brain damage and memory loss, and so on.

“All of the above have been proven to be just not true. They are just literally lies,” he said.

Shillingford noted that when it comes to Cannabis, he has seen both sides of the law.

“Well I can admit to you that I’ve been smoking herb since I’m thirteen, and I still just smoke herb. I have been through every institution, schools etc, I have also been to the institution of jail as a result of that. So I have seen both sides of the law,” he stated.

He noted that the law cannot describe Cannabis as a drug “because it is not a chemically derived substance but it occurs naturally.”

“Now if (the law) is to prevent harm why don’t they stop people from going to KFC? Or eating pork? Or doing all of the other things because quite frankly 66 percent of the deaths in the world are caused by Non communicable diseases (diabetes, high blood pressure), all of which are preventable by what we eat and how we live,” he stated. “And if it was harm that they are preventing, why are these being advertised and encouraged?”

Shillingford remarked that alcohol causes 450,000 deaths per year in the US alone and he asked how many has been caused by the use of Cannabis.

“Zero. In fact in every 5,000 of cannabis use, not one death ….not one death to the use of marijuana,” he stressed.

He said the laws in Dominica must be changed.

“This is serious we got to change these laws. We got to…it is absurd. Now why is it absurd? Why am I so emphatic?,” he asked. “It should be legal because of its benefits. Forget the cost that it may occur …it is a proven cure for cancer…”

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127 Comments

  1. Taitai108
    December 24, 2013

    God has a purpose for putting everything he placed on earth. Weed has a purpose and that is to serve man and animals. It’s a life force. When something is readily available without any restrictions people tend to give it less attention. I believe if weed is legalize. People would consume it by the ponds for a few years. Then the use of it will even out. Free the weed man. It’s nature like our Island.

  2. December 13, 2013

    DNO is read here in Canada. This means at a time when Canada is struggling with the issue of marijuana legalization Henry Shillingford’s voice is heard here speaking in defence of marijuana.

    I appreciate the fact that I (a Canadian) am allowed to post comments in reply to Mr. Shillingford’s contribution to the panel disussion in Dominica State College.

    When considering any possible change in the law or laws regarding marijuana I am offering a few facts that should be taken into consideration.

    (1) It use to be thought that marijuana is only psychologically addictive. Now it is known that it is also physically addictive. However, some people have a higher threshold to addictions therefore it affects people differently.

    (2) Marijuana is a “gateway” drug. Many people who are now addicted to the “heavier” drugs began with marijuana. It was the use of marijuana that introduced them to the world of drugs.

    (3 Marijuana smoking has been known to produce serious lung and breathing problems.

    (4) There is evidence that the smoking of marijuana does also cause certain types of cancer.

    (5) Marijuana smoking has been shown to cause brain damage and loss of memory. Students who engage in heavy marijuana use over several years generally don’t do as well in school, and there is evidence that they are more apt to drop out of school before graduation.

    (6) There is a big problem with people (especially young people) using marijuana and driving. This is shown in one of the latest major studies on the weed in Canada. More kids were smoking and driving than drinking and driving. Marijuana is causing accidents. Often the driver has been both drinking and smoking. The drinking often gets the blame. But the alcohol compounds the effect of the marjuana causing the results to be much, much worse than the alcohol alone.

    (7) The saddest fact of all is the effect the weed can have on the unborn. Studies have shown that heavy marijuana smoking during pregnancy can
    damage the child for life.

    NOTE: I can already hear the pushers saying, “Tobbaco and alcohol also harm the unborn.” This is absolutely right! And they cause many other ills and woes! This is why neither tobacco nor alcohol should be legal! But these products (tobacco and alcohol) were legalized many years ago in less enlightened times before the studies were done and the results were published! I recall a Ph.D. (clinical psychology)
    instructor I had in a counseling class years ago (in Canada) saying it is very unlikely that alcohol would be legally approved for production and sale in light of the knowledge we have now. My own thoughts are that tobacco would not be accepted now either.

    (8) Most of those who are working to have marijuana legalized are themselves marijuana smokers. Some are people who hope to make money from the production or sale of the weed. Unforunately these are not the most objective people to speak or write on the subject.

    (9) Those who work for the legalization of marijuana use deceitful methods to push it through. One of their deceptive approaches is to “fudge” the issue by making it something it is not: something they know the public is less apt to oppose. For example:

    (a) When we speak against the legaliation of marijuana it is NOT the use of the cannabis plant to make cloth, clothes, or any other legitimate product we oppose. What we don’t want is the legalization of the weed for smoking, inhaling, or consumption by pill form or by injection, for the purpose of getting high!

    (b) We are not opposing whatever MEDICAL uses they can PROVE there are in cannabis that cannot now be received from already existing drugs. Some part or parts of the plant may be useful in treating certain serious diseases. I say “Let the medical research continue.” But keep any new medicine or treatment derived from cannabis out of the hands of those who would abuse it. Let its use be controlled the way the use of morphine and other such drugs are now.

    What I have found is that those who are asking for marijuana to smoke for a medical reason – usually to kill pain – are people who smoked marijuana long before they became ill. They simply want to smoke! Now they are sick if they can get the government or their insurance company to pay for their “medical” weed all the better! And of course if it becomes legal for medical use they no longer have to worry about the police.

    (10) Mr. Shillingford made statements that are simply not correct. To avoid being judgmental I will not say they were “lies”. He may actually believe everything he said. If he does he is not qualified to speak on the subject in a college setting.

    Mr. Shillingford used himself as an example by saying that he had smoked the weed since he was thirteen 1and was able t get his education and be successful. He did not tell us how much or how often he smoked. He did admit that marijuana had landed him into trouble with the law. However, he should realize that using one person as an example does no prove anything scientifically. There are always exceptions to the effects or results of any substance use.

    He said marijuana is proven to cure cancer. If this is true it is the greatest medical discovery in hundreds of years. I hope he is right. Where was this discovery made? By whom? What is the formula and how is it taken? Was this published in the medical journals? Was it subject to peer review? Where can the treatment be obtained? Why, oh why, have we the public not heard of it?

    PERHAPS DNO WILL HELP US GET THIS INFORMATION OUT TO THE WORLD :!:

    IF NOT WHY NOT :?:

    Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, D.D. (Diploma in Drugs and Drug Dependence) Pentecostal Evangelist.

    • Ganja Farmer
      December 13, 2013

      Besides the top 10 health benefits below, findings published in the journal PLoS ONE, researchers have now have now discovered that marijuana-like chemicals trigger receptors on human immune cells that can directly inhibit a type of human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) found in late-stage AIDS.

      Recent studies have even shown it to be an effective atypical anti-psychotic in treating schizophrenia, a disease many other studies have inconsistently found it causing.

      1. Cancer
      Cannabinoids, the active components of marijuana, inhibit tumor growth in laboratory animals and also kill cancer cells. Western governments have known this for a long time yet they continued to suppress the information so that cannabis prohibition and the profits generated by the drug industry proliferated.

      THC that targets cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 is similar in function to endocannabinoids, which are cannabinoids that are naturally produced in the body and activate these receptors. The researchers suggest that THC or other designer agents that activate these receptors might be used in a targeted fashion to treat lung cancer.

      2. Tourette’s Syndrome
      Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by uncontrollable facial grimaces, tics, and involuntary grunts, snorts and shouts.

      Dr. Kirsten Mueller-Vahl of the Hanover Medical College in Germany led a team that investigated the effects of chemicals called cannabinols in 12 adult Tourette’s patients. A single dose of the cannabinol produced a significant reduction in symptoms for several hours compared to placebo, the researchers reported.

      3. Seizures
      Marijuana is a muscle relaxant and has “antispasmodic” qualities that have proven to be a very effective treatment for seizures. There are actually countless cases of people suffering from seizures that have only been able to function better through the use of marijuana.

      4. Migraines
      Since medicinal marijuana was legalized in California, doctors have reported that they have been able to treat more than 300,000 cases of migraines that conventional medicine couldn’t through marijuana.

      5. Glaucoma
      Marijuana’s treatment of glaucoma has been one of the best documented. There isn’t a single valid study that exists that disproves marijuana’s very powerful and popular effects on glaucoma patients.

      6. Multiple Sclerosis
      Marijuana’s effects on multiple sclerosis patients became better documented when former talk-show host, Montel Williams began to use pot to treat his MS. Marijuana works to stop the neurological effects and muscle spasms that come from the fatal disease.

      7. ADD and ADHD
      A well documented USC study done about a year ago showed that marijuana is not only a perfect alternative for Ritalin but treats the disorder without any of the negative side effects of the pharmaceutical.

      8. IBS and Crohn’s
      Marijuana has shown that it can help with symptoms of the chronic diseases as it stops nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

      9. Alzheimer’s
      Despite what you may have heard about marijuana’s effects on the brain, the Scripps Institute, in 2006, proved that the THC found in marijuana works to prevent Alzheimer’s by blocking the deposits in the brain that cause the disease.

      10. Premenstrual Syndrome
      Just like marijuana is used to treat IBS, it can be used to treat the cramps and discomfort that causes PMS symptoms. Using marijuana for PMS actually goes all the way back to Queen Victoria.

      Mounting Evidence Suggests Raw Cannabis is Best

      Cannabinoids can prevent cancer, reduce heart attacks by 66% and insulin dependent diabetes by 58%. Cannabis clinician Dr. William Courtney recommends drinking 4 – 8 ounces of raw flower and leaf juice from any Hemp plant, 5 mg of Cannabidiol (CBD) per kg of body weight, a salad of Hemp seed sprouts and 50 mg of THC taken in 5 daily doses.

      • December 30, 2013

        I hope this information about marjuana being useful for medical purposes is correct. However, not enough is known yet about the other side of the issue. For every health problem the weed eliminates (if it does) it may create one or two others.

        A few oher things should be considered.

        (1) Many people who are lobbying for the medical use of marjuana are recreational marijuana smokers and seem to have their own reasons for wanting the weed decriminalized that have nothing to do with killing pain or curing disease. This might cause them to work too hard to bring in the medical use of cannabis without considering all the facts. It is a red flag that questions their objectivity.

        (2) At the present time we are getting mixed messages. Some studies seem to show marijuana “cures” certain cancers. On the other hand there have been been studies that suggest it causes certain cancers. The same is true of wine. Some studies show a glass of wine a day helps prevent heart disease. On the other hand there are studies that suggest no amount of alcohol consumption is “safe.” Right now its all a bit bewildering. Personally, I like to know who financed any particular study and who actually did the study. Was it published in a journal and did it pass peer review? This slows things down a bit but it is human health and life we are dealng with.

        (3) Any study showing the medicinal value of marijuana as a pain killer or a “cure” for any disease whatsoever should include proof that it works better than any already existing drug. I say this because of its potential for sbuse.

        (4) The more readily available any substance is the more it will be used. Any study should include recommendations as to how the drug can be kept within proper medical boundaries and not be used for recreational purposes. These are things our polititans should be considering now to be ready for what ever comes.

        (5) For whatever disease, illness, or symptom marijuana IS proven to cure it should be undertood that it may cause another disease, illness, or symptom. Not enough is known yet about marijuana.

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

    • #
      December 20, 2013

      Rev. Hill, you seem to be an expert on drugs and drug dependence…Duly noted…my question to you is have you ever tried any drugs in your lifetime? even if simply experimental? If not…then i cannot accept your recycled info. This goes out to all the others who are against the herb. If you have never ever tried it, i don’t want to hear you. Would you take expert advice from a football coach who has never played football? or a farmer who has never planted? No most likely you would not. Therefore Rev, unless you can tell me that you have taffed a big one (whether you rolled it yourself or not) really i doh want to hear you. As a religious man you should know that “the herb on this land IS! for the use of man” Keep it up Henry. One day.

      • September 29, 2014

        On one hand a person who HAS smoked marijuana may be biased in favor of smoking marijuana.

        On the other hand a person who has NOT smoked marijuana may be more objective.

        Neither consumption nor abstinence would prove anything since I would only be one case and could simply be an exception. One case history would not be a scientific study.

        A person who has experimented with marijuana may have done so without learning anything about the physical or mental damage that can be done by repeated use over a long period of time. Actually, all he or she would gain would be the knowledge of what it feels like to get “high”. Since I can’t see any scientific value in this I don’t think I’ll run out and buy a bag of weed any time soon.

        My limited knowledge of marijuana use comes from the following. (1) A course of study leading to a Diploma in Drug Studies. (2) A Diploma course in Christian Counseling, (3) Several years of paid pastoral counselling practice at a multidisciplinary Health Centre and in a inner city church both in Toronto where I worked with drug addicts. (3) Direct contact with marijuana users during several summers of street ministry in Brooklyn, New York in co-operation with a number of local churches. (4) Some interaction with TEEN CHALLENGE and their workers through the years. (5) Conversations I have had with former marijuana uses and other ex drug addicts who have received help through Christian ministry. Talking with marijuana smokers in counseling sessions compensated for me not having smoked it myself.

        Your line of reasoning is rather strange. Would you refuse treatment from a cancer specialist because he himself had never had cancer? Would a policeman be unqualified to arrest a bank robber because he had never robbed a bank? Would a car mechanic be unqualified to replace an engine in a car because he had never had the engine replaced in his own car?

        Sincerely , Rev, Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

  3. midlred
    December 12, 2013

    this may sound a bit absurd to most people but i think that all drugs should be legal. Why does the government have a right to decide what i can or cannot consume. we all know the consequence, it should be a matter of personal choice.

    • December 30, 2013

      Midlred: I suspect that there is a use or benefit for every tree, plant, or herb God created on the face of the earth but obviously that use or benefit has not yet been dscovered in some cases.

      I think you would agree with me when I say…

      Not every tree, plant, or herb is meant to be eaten, drank, rubbed on your skin, or injected into your blood stream!

      Many are deadly if they are not used right.

      Why does the government have a law against the said use of certain substances? To protect people who don’t have the sense to take care of themselves! It’s the same reason we would try to stop a person from committing suicide.

      You said “It should be a matter of personal choice.” Midlred, you haven’t walked where I have walked! If you could only see the human ruin caused by drugs. Those who have died from overdoses, those who have damage their brains to the point where they can’t carry on an intelligent convesation, go to school, or work at a job. Then there are those who become prostitutes, or commit crimes to get money for drugs. People have been responsible for fatal car accidents “under the influence” of drugs. I have known of several who committed murder while they were high on drugs.

      There are many people who do not have good judgment. Some had a bad childhood. Others came under evil influences early in life. Some use drugs to kill the emotional pain of circumstances instead of seeking professinal help – or – better still, surrendering their lives to Jesus Christ. So yes, there will be people who make wrong and destructive choices. But there is a better way! As an evangelist I recommend Christ. He is a loving and caring Savior. He is the healer of sin sick minds and broken lives. I have personally met people who were once addicted and sold drugs to support their habit until they encountered Jesus! Now they are preaching the gospel telling others how they can be free.

      Drug addiction is epidemic. There are multiplied thousands of people who are addicted because they made wrong choices. They are on the road to self destruction. Should we let them go? NO! a thousand times no! Not if we can stop them. We should do all we can to help these people.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

    • September 29, 2014

      As long as people demonstrate that they don’t have the sense to make right choices it will be necessary to have laws to keep them in line.

      The law is the only thing between some people and the jungle! Good grief! Even with laws you have people hurting themselves and others. Yet they are calling for decriminalization and legalization!

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

  4. Tyre hit de road
    December 12, 2013

    Legalize it.

  5. Legalize It
    December 12, 2013

    Finally!!! weed is way safer than ALCHOHOL OR CIGARETTES !!! It will keep people calm instead of vile in this Ohhh so frustrating corrupt country. Stop being such HYPOCRITES!!!!

    • Justice and Truth
      December 13, 2013

      You do not know what you have stated. If you ingest it, keep on doing so and see what will happen to you in a few years.
      Look at the facial feature of Henry. He looks like he is sleepy. This is also what this drug will do to you. You will not be able to function properly.

      • Leigh-Anne
        January 20, 2014

        Stop talking about what you don’t know!!

  6. cessame street
    December 12, 2013

    legalize it but please dont abuse it :mrgreen: 8-O

    • December 16, 2013

      It is presently not legal and people abuse it.

      If it is legalized it is hard to imagine more people not abusing it.

      To prevent increased abuse they would have to bring in laws against the selling and buying of the product for “recreational” purposes and this would be a return to criminalization.

      Bottom line? This is a bad product. Any good that can be received from the use of marijuana can usually be received from conventional and legal substances at less risk.

      Exceptions exist but they require safeguards to keep the weed out of the wrong hands. For this reason medical research should continue but it should be done only under the watch of a wide awake and informed government.

      As I have said before legalization invites organized crime because it makes it easier for them to operate.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

  7. Di Londoner
    December 12, 2013

    Legalizing the herb will bring an end to someone’s livelihood! It would mean everyone would have a plant or two in their backyard…

  8. johnbob
    December 12, 2013

    absolutely it should be legalized and of course intelligently regulated/control ASAP. If Dominica acts now, ahead of other countries then the economic reward will be tremendous.

  9. concern
    December 12, 2013

    A simple solutuion to this forever discussion that seems to have no end. Marijuana has a significantly hi THC level that if ones body do not have the level of tolerance it can be distructive.

    • Anonymous
      December 12, 2013

      That’s rubbish. Please do some research

  10. Yuri A. Jones
    December 12, 2013

    I can think of no reason why Marijuana should be seen as any different from tobacco or alcohol. When consumed, all three substances can severely affect how we function. For that reason, the alcohol and tobacco industries are usually heavily regulated.

    More specifically, the age allowing the purchase and consumption of these substances is statutory in many countries so as to protect the youth from their effects. Further, institutions and public entities implement certain rules to protect society. For example, laws against public drunkenness, rules against smoking in public, rules against working while under the influence, DUI’s and many others.

    The harms and ills of consuming alcohol and tobacco are well documented and annually the two (and directly related incidents) represent some of the biggest causes of loss of human life. Marijuana, on the other hand, a widely used (and abused) substance, has not been conclusively shown to cause harm on a scale that is anywhere near that of the two aforementioned substances.

    So why does society still view Marijuana (and those who choose to use it) so negatively?

    Even in light of countless miraculous medical cases, many people still only see Marijuana as the harbinger of lifelong addiction. Marijuana has been PROVEN to be the ONLY harmless and sustainable treatment for diseases and conditions that had once caused their victims to give up on life.

    We need to wake up and see that – at the very least – Marijuana is no worse than alcohol and tobacco, and the potential benefit of decriminalizing and commercializing the substance far outweigh the contrived societal ills.

    I can foresee this though – the world will continue on this “progressive” trend with regards to Marijuana. More and more countries will amend their laws to allow some kind of use of the Herb. The more progressive countries will work on creating industries around Marijuana (think of Uruguay and Jamaica in 2013). And the window of opportunity that we have NOW will be gone in the blink of an eye.

    • lightbulb
      December 12, 2013

      logic wont prevail, only sensationalism

  11. Student at College
    December 12, 2013

    Everyone needs to understand 2 things,
    1. They (Tihany and Henry) were ASKED to come and speak to the students about the pros of marijuana they did NOT propose the idea…
    2. Pastor Danny Esprit and Inspector John Carbon was there also arguing against marijuana. It was a debate! They were invited!

    Most of you all are ignorant to the fact that marijuana has many more uses other than smoking, Fabric, oil, lotions, medication, vitamin tablet and many other cosmetics and pharmaceuticals can be produced by marijuana, the first step is legalization only then we can work on the by-products. STOP BEING SO CLOSED MINDED ON MARIJUANA it is stupid ancient and ridiculous!

    • mzungu kichaa
      December 12, 2013

      but if students really need to know more about marijuana why not to call for real professionals like people from Ross University or some practicing doctors…why you listen to 2 pseudo-professionals talking about ganja…why you dont ask do those 2 lawyers really know something serious or they are looking for cheap popularity among youngs?

    • 4CARS
      December 12, 2013

      So what’s your point? did I miss it?

  12. 4CARS
    December 12, 2013

    I have a job at Astaphan’s, if they legalize the weed today I’m quitting my job tomorrow to go and plant it. Mind you! many others have said the same thing – because they can make more money selling the herb than working in the private or public sector. Now, my question is this: If you legalize the cannabis (which seem to have much more lucrative than working at Astaphan’s or Whitchurch and Co.) can you imagine the amount of businesses that will go under? Dominica will then be a field of Cannbis which will then be our main source of income. Look now we have Government employees presently out on bail for dealing drugs to supplement their income. Would they be working for the Government if these drugs become legalized? It is obviously irresponsible for anyone to suggest legalizing Cannabis. They are all crazy people whose heads need to be examined.

    • Malgraysa
      December 13, 2013

      Boy, you never heard of “supply and demand” in school? What you think will happen when everybody can grow that weed freely? it will be so cheap and plentiful like when the price of carrots drops in the market because their is an over-supply. It is precisely because it is illegal why there is good money in it….but only for now.

    • December 14, 2013

      DECRIMINALIZATION would mean all the laws that forbid the production, sale, or use of the product would be removed from the books. None of these activities would then be illegal or a crime.

      Once it is decriminalized anybody can grow, sell, buy, or use the weed.

      Then it becomes necessary to to take the next step and LEGALIZE the product. This mean there will have to be laws regulating who can grow the weed, where it can be sold and by whom, and who can buy marijuana. Many countries have these kind of laws now for tobacco and alcohol. Because these products are abused and the abuse can be dangerous governments realize they must be regulated.

      Legalization will not eliminate illegal activities.

      Once it is legal the government can charge for a license to produce and sell the product. They will also be able to charge income tax on the money made from selling the weed either in bulk or as joints ready to smoke.

      People who do not want to pay for a license to grow the weed OR pay income tax on their sales can carry on illegally without a license and risk arrest.

      Since they do not pay for a license or income tax they will be able to sell for less. Naturally, this will pull in a few more customers!

      When the producers and sellers are not licensed the buyers have no guarantee they are getting a good quality of the drug or even a safe product.

      Under aged young people who cannot legally purchase their weed from from legitimate (licensed) dealers will buy from those who are unlicensed especially since they can probably get it cheaper from them!

      Don’t argue that other nations have legalized marijuana and are doing O.K. (a) They have not had legalization long enough to know what the results will be. (b) Many years ago these nations and others made the sale of tobacco products legal. Now we have scientific proof that 50% of all steady cigarette smokers will die from a disease caused by tobacco smoke and it has been happening in those countries for years.

      • December 14, 2013

        Continued …

        At the present time Dominica appears to have a government with insight into the marijuana legalization issue and wants what is best for the people. Let us pray they will stay strong and not be swayed.

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 15, 2013

        Essential Fatty Acids are those acids that are required by the body in order to function properly but are not produced by the body. Many of these essential fatty acids are present in Cannabis, which is of especial importance to vegetarians as these acids are usually only found in meats not plants.

        Two proteins that are found in Cannabis are Edestin and Albumin, these are essential in stimulating the immune system, keeping it efficient.

        Omega-3 and Omega 6 are essential fatty acids found in Cannabis, and it is considered that they are present in cannabis in the ideal ratio to be of most benefit to the human body.

  13. TW
    December 12, 2013

    I think I understand, based on the comments, why Mr Shillingford believes that there is a miseducation about the drug as most people seem to think it’s all about getting high. However simple research would tell you that Marijuana is used in the creation of the medication used in combating aids, it is also prescribed for glaucoma in some states. There are many health benefits to the drug however I don’t believe it should be fully legal just like I don’t believe cigarettes should be legal but I do believe there is merit in decriminalizing it for study

    • 4CARS
      December 12, 2013

      Who are the people going to do the “study”? the smokers and sellers/dealers? They studied that a long time ago. No legalizing of that herb.

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 13, 2013

        There is no plant on Earth more condemned than marijuana. We’re talking about a living organism which governments have taken upon themselves to designate as an illegal substance. Despite no existing evidence of anyone ever dying of a marijuana overdose, possession of this plant is still illegal in many parts. Marijuana has been found to suppress cancer, reduce blood pressure, treat glaucoma, alleviate pain and even inhibit HIV. It is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective. Can you understand more now why it’s illegal?

  14. Anonymous
    December 12, 2013

    Way papa. Them man just hear one country leagalised marijuana and all their hairs up. They get strength to talk.

  15. Tree of Life
    December 12, 2013

    Some people forget that it is a good medicine….to all those who are “against”….please take some time and look/learn at/from this video…
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0psJhQHk_GI

  16. Hmmm
    December 12, 2013

    WTH is wrong with Dominicans? Are we really that “behind” in our thinking? We are a cash-strapped country where poverty leads so many of our people into using alcohol and crack that enriches tons of non-Dominicans while killing us, and we are here asking for more of a debate on legalizing marijuana? The fact that the leadership who are considering ways to get income for the country do not see Marijuana as THE obvious choice just shows how much we have lost critically thinking, bold, visionaries in our land.

    Just read a little history people! Why was alcohol such a popular, legal substance in the Caribbean? It made Europeans rich…they controlled the mode of production and could care less how many of our or theirs people died from it. Marijuana wasn’t their product so it was a ‘problem’. The minute they start making money from it (as they now are in droves in the US) and control the production so Black fools like Dominicans can only be consumers, watch how fast our leadership will claim it should be legal. We can only think of following, and making economic crumbs, while Americans and Europeans forge ahead fighting to create new products/markets that make them millions.

    Lets sit around waiting until marijuana is legalized everywhere else and then follow suit when it is too late to be competitive. In the meantime we will keep begging other countries for money, claiming there is no other way.

  17. BOOM BOOMMMMMMMMMMMM
    December 12, 2013

    SOME PEOPLE HERE ARE SO STUPID and hae no idea what weed does to you. They actually think that whenever you smoke weed YOU GET HIGH. lolzzzzzzzz You people sound so dumb.

    I have been smoking for yearssss. Do you gys know that weed eventually loses its strength after a while. When I smoke weed it keeps me on a cool some weed u smoke dont do u shit cause is old or stale weed. After u smoke it for a while it does not give u any high like as if you seeing little birds or any nonsense like this. Its just relaxes me PERIOD nothing else and according to the type of weed it might make me eat alot thats about it. When Some people add other drugs to the weed thats when they go loco.

    SMOKE SOME WEED FOR SOME YEARS then you will know wat am talking about. Stupid people commenting here just talking crap without having to experience what weed actually does to you.

  18. Same Case
    December 12, 2013

    We can make a similar case for the Coca plant, which is a natural plant as well, from which cocaine is derived.

    Once we begin to go down that path, there will be no end in sight..

    We have known Shillingford’s position on this matter for a while now so the College panel, asked him to present his input because they knew his response would be automatic. I was kinda disappointed with Behanzin’s response thought. Goes to show that he no longer a Magistrate, reduced to a regular lawyer now, would say almost anything to gain a client base. Be it from the drug world or where ever, it seems.

    I think we should let a College debate be just that.

    • Anonymous
      December 12, 2013

      Correct, the coca plant is a natural plant but it has little effect in its natural stage. It’s when other harmful chemicals are added to it to produce cocaine, that is when there are drastic harmful effects.
      Herb on the other hand needs not artificial chemical or processing to get the job done. It’s as natural as semester cottoir or basselic.

  19. 1love
    December 11, 2013

    Dominica is a place where people will never evolve to the liking of the Most High. The most high created this herb so you could use it. I bet most of you don’t know more than 2 uses for it, where as there are many more, It’s time mankind stop demonizing God;s work and start embracing it. This is the most powerful herb, And that is your ticket to a Higher consciousness because you people are disconnected with the universe.

  20. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013

    If it were legalized, the price would drop and so would a lot of the interest in it. However, in DA, it also serves as a way to escape the real world and definitely lowers the productivity.

  21. Justice and Truth
    December 11, 2013

    Henry, we have not seen your picture and your views on this Website for a long time. I wondered where were you and what have you been up to.
    Going to KFC or other fast food outlets and eating pork will not kill people or even get them sick.
    On occasion, I eat pork. It is not an everyday meat for me. I recall how delicious pork, prepared in different ways tasted in Dominica. It is for this reason I continue to love eating pork. This Christmas I will be purchasing some which is customary for Christmas.
    Furthermore, I like a variety of chicken, meat and fish throughout the week/month. I do not have large portions of them. In other words, I do not overeat and I am certain this applies to many others.
    I occasionally go to KFC or other fast good outlet, giving me and my family a treat. How can this kill us or anyone?
    As in everything, moderation should always be practiced. Will those who, of all, want cannabis legalized, practice moderation? I doubt that. They want it to take as frequently as they possibly could, day and night and to get a high, also to sell it and make a mint from doing so.
    People who take Cannabis are liable to kill others. They imagine all sorts of things and people looking like the devil/monsters. It is a dangerous illegal drug.
    It reminds me, the Dominican mother of all whose young son murdered her teenage daughter (her only daughter), his sister some years ago in the US while she was sleeping, should speak against legalizing cannabis or any such illegal drug and even taking it and growing it. I believe he thought his innocent sister who was sleeping was a monster. It hurts my heart to bring this up but it is necessary at this time.
    This type of illegal drug will eventually give those who ingest it cancer of the body/brain. It will also dull their mind.
    How many people really steal and kill for food? There are those who will do this for money to purchase these illegal drugs.
    If people overeat and too much of it, this is when it could make them get sick and develop an illness and die. Generally, food does not kill. Furthermore, God created chicken and pigs. What do you expect to be done to the pigs? Kill them and bury them and/or just let them run around and wild? Or will they be given contraceptives so that the adult pigs do not produce little pigs?
    Henry, you do not know what you are talking about. It makes no sense.
    Cannabis, cocaine, marijuana and the likes are not nutritious foods. They are not healthy and should be banned and not legalized.
    In my estimation, you do not have an argument here. This case for legalization of these illegal drugs should rest, once and for all.
    If you continued to recognize God in your life as a baptized Catholic, you would not promote this legalization of cannabis. We must pray for you.

    • jana
      December 12, 2013

      WOW! Ignorance at its best. :-|

  22. I disagree
    December 11, 2013

    yes marijuana is a good herb and can do many good things,but do you think most Dominicans are going to use marijuana for the good things it can do? I really don’t think so at all.It’s just going to ruin the country.

  23. upcoming generation
    December 11, 2013

    its amazing the same people saying we are being brainwashed by the stances bigger countries are taking forget that they have already been brainwashed. I ask any of those commenting against marijuana use to provide the evidence of its use being directly linked to any health issue. while you search..dont forget to open your eyes and see that the very legal cigarette is killing users and bystanders everyday in a slow, painful and extremely expensive manner. aka cancer. stop living in a box. look at the evidence and compare what you condone so naturally to what you condemn with such passion. i remain neutral on this matter as i do not use any of the above. just pointing it out. ;)

  24. forreal
    December 11, 2013

    the almighty god who art in heaven the creator of both heaven and earth,raised a seed unto his self,a perefct son,in whom was no sin,his only begotten in whom he was well pleased,no blemish, in whom death had no hold on,who was appointed by god to die and was risen up by god,to gloryfy god,that whosoever just beleive that he died and rose up from the dead state,will have everlasting life,because god is life not death,he knows not death,death was created when man failed to keep a simple comandment,gods perfect son who now sits on the right hand side of mankinds judgement,a perfect man whom is an appointed example by which man should live by, and keep gods comandments,which waits on gods appointed day of earth and heavens gatthering and ultimate judgement,i am not against the legalization of the herb.because it’s a herb,and should not have any consequences in it’s use as like any other herb,my point is,which is more important to mankind,to try and save himself for the appointed judgement day,or worry about things of lesser importance,this is my take on reallity,and also on the whole legalization of herb issue,mark my word,the prosecution for the cultivation and use of the herb mariuana,i do not support it,dont get me wrong,the thing is god created everything,dont you think that he can and will rectify everything,there is an appointed day comming,so in my opinoun seek god first and everthing else,will be added,ONE LOVE.

  25. me
    December 11, 2013

    These guys want to legalize pot in Da and they are lawyers? How can Dominica get control of the drugs in this place action speaks louder than words. They are the ones to protect and they and they are the one to destroy it with their legalization of marijuana. I am feeling sorry for the youths.

  26. konybud
    December 11, 2013

    i think it’s time they free up the weed ,so every body can eat,more jobs more money,what about the sick ppl they need it,i support u henry all the way

  27. Country Man
    December 11, 2013

    This is a serious discussion that’s needed. The train is leaving the station and we in the islands are going to miss it if we don’t address decriminalization of cannabis.
    Check the links below – See what is going on now while we fight among ourselves when it comes to ganja.
    http://nyti.ms/1iEI6ia
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlE2fjoMkko

  28. The Holy Herb
    December 11, 2013

    How can one get in touch with this attorney.

  29. Rasta
    December 11, 2013

    green liite men lol shillinford u really high boy after what they do you in stocky you still in the herb business boy awa

  30. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013

    My last comment was directed to mzungu and not “a concerned attorney” . I say that because he brings up valid points through his observations. That sets the stage for an intellectual conversation. Many should take note. Sick and tired observer

    • MZUNGU
      December 11, 2013

      dont be sick and tired…you better relax, sit and read some decent book not a blog of some junkie blogger who tell a nonsense about cannabis…you seriously think that Dominican society with its present state is capable to handle ‘legal’ drugs? You ever been in the Netherlands…you think its a funny business when thousands of youngsters traveling to Amsterdam to smoke weed? Have you seen people sitting in the coffee shops and smoking weed? Its disgusting and only crazy populist can advocate it
      You can bring different evidences that cannabis is good natural bla bla bla..the fact is that cannabis is illegal in the majority of civilized countries and until Dominican society is mature enough such discussion are detrimental. There are thousands of real problems that plague this island..but instead of doing something real you spend time discussing some lunatic arguments…

      btw why the same lawyer not trying to ban alcohol? why not?..answer is easy its extremely unpopular and he will be crucified by the public opinion for such proposal…although the alcohol is really dangerous thing and Dominican drink it in huge dozes!

  31. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013

    No intellectual capacity? Please google the definition before using the term. While you are on google, search the studies done on cannabis, then, alcohol, and lastly obesity. When you are done, let’s revisit the term ‘intellectual’ and if you are willing ,we can then have an intellectual conversation about what Mr. Shillingford was say/talking about….. Just a sick an tired observer.

  32. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013

    Garcon Henry, if you are the posterboy for legalizing herb, I’d say ban it forever!

    • Justice and Truth
      December 11, 2013

      :lol: :lol: :lol: You made me laugh. You are so correct.
      Henry is from a decent, nice family. I know his family, parents, now belated and siblings. What lovely parents he had. I can see them, friendly and smiling. His mother was a teacher at the Convent High School. She was a nice lady and teacher.
      I do not know what happened to him, where he went wrong to cause him to be like this. I can say, bad company and influence do corrupt.
      I have noted he is not aging gracefully. This is what rejection of God and taking drugs can do to people. I feel so sorry for him. Imagine how his remaining family feel.
      Oh Henry! We cry for thee! May God put a hand and restore you to godliness and sanity.

  33. Me again
    December 11, 2013

    I am not a user, a trafficker or a seller. I am not associated with Ganja in any way, but I support legalization. I think the powers in Dominica that are proponents of legalization should argue from an economic perspective. Someone should gather the necessary data, and demonstrate to the government, law enforcement, the medical community and all the necessary stakeholders that legalizing and controlling ganja production can be economically beneficial to Dominica. The war on drugs has been lost; stop fighting it and focus on treating addicts, reducing prison population, focusing on real crimes and most importantly, figuring out ways that the government and the people can make money from the country’s natural resources legally. The longer we wait to do that, the less our profit will be, because soon, other countries will take that big step.

    • December 12, 2013

      Good point Bro

    • DA in NYC
      December 12, 2013

      I could not just clicked the “like” button for this one, I had to say to the individual who posted this comment “WELL SAID”

  34. BEACHPILOT437
    December 11, 2013

    I agree that a lot of the stigma associated with the use of cannabis is due to miseducation , cannabis has been tested and proven to curb or reduce seizures in young children ,treat glaucoma and certain forms of cancer . However the abuse and uncontrolled used of anything is going to be harmful , look at alcohol, taken moderately is fine ,even considered great(1 glass of red wine per day is said to help the heart ), but excessive consumption is very deadly . We do need alot more healthy and open minded discussions on cannabis . Friends and please be objective and well researched before jumping to conclusions .

    • Justice and Truth
      December 11, 2013

      This may very well be, but addiction to it is dangerous. This is why some democratic countries, be they a few today, will not legalize it or any such illegal drug.
      Granted, we do not know what the future holds for us and what type of illness we will have. However, I have considered if people gave God his dues by recognizing him, practicing the faith, praying for themselves, for others, performing acts of love and living a relatively moral and spiritual lifestyle, they will not find themselves in a position to take those drugs for pain. They may have no pain at all even though they are sick.
      The specifically overseas Media and the Medical Profession will not inform us about that because some of them are godless.
      Do a relevant research on this and the type of adults who take it for pain. This could confirm what I stated.
      Our Lord Jesus Christ said, “Ask and you shall receive…Apart from Me you can do nothing…” Let they who promote illegal drugs, endorse them and want them legalized give this a thought and comprehend it.

      • #
        December 20, 2013

        MMMUUCCHHHH less addictive than alcohol and cigarettes.

  35. woi woi
    December 11, 2013

    Is that the most IMPORTANT thing for BLACK people? For Dominicans? We will continue to envy the other races with their progress in the sciences while we get high high high so high.

    • Justice and Truth
      December 11, 2013

      It will kill many blacks, make some dotish and send some into asylums. This will be the end of a few generations.
      I have said that humanity (some members of) will destroy themselves in some ways.

    • Hmmm
      December 12, 2013

      YES!! It is THE most important thing for BLACK people and DOMINICAN people right now. You guys think it is all about getting high, while we sanction getting high, promote it on tv, radio, carnival via Alcohol advertising!

      This is THE most important thing for Dominicans becuase we are one of the poorest nations in the Western Hemisphere and NEED income! Do you know how much California (which, is an economic powerhouse even on its low days) gets from taxing Marijuana?! If we followed suit, the average income of Dominicans could double, better schools, more scholarships,better healthcare,less gov’t debt, more money for rehab for all the alcoholics.

      Come on people, this isn’t 1970s, this is the age of information. Just look at the world around you. To make money you need a competitive edge, DOminica frankly doesn’t have anything besides fertile land! Regular agriculture isn’t going to create the income we need — Legalizing Marijuana NOW to become the first Caribbean island will boost our tourism product like we never imagined! There are so many spin-off businesses…I could go on…just open your eyes people!

      • Justice and Truth
        December 13, 2013

        Selling their souls to the devil for money, the root of all evil. What will the US not do to get money, the almighty dollar?
        So they sell it and illegally import it to other lands. I would not want to see it legalized. I will never smoke it. I know of no one who smokes those illegal drugs. Let it remain this way.

      • December 16, 2013

        You cannot serve God and mammon. :twisted:

        Yes, if you decriminalize marijuana and allow it to be grown, sold, and exported, it will bring in $$$$$$$.

        The people of the Caribbean are the last people on earth that should accept this way of thinking.
        What is the matter with you? :cry:

        This is the same money mentality that birthed and drove the slave trade. It is a philosophy that says do whatever is commercially profitable for you even if it means exploiting and harming others. It also shows a great lack of creativity.
        With a little more imagination and effort you could raise and sell other products that would help and not harm your people. No hiding the fact that it would require vision and work! Why not develop new and profitable industries? You could start companies to export worthwhile products that would bless and not harm your consumers abroad. :-o

        I have heard that the tourist industry in Dominica has not reached its potential. Your beautiful island has so much to offer tourists. The decriminalization of marijuana would not bring in the kind of tourists that would boost the moral of your country. But you could develop a drug free tourist’s paradise that would truly make Dominica the pearl of the Caribbean. :-o

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

    • YOUTH
      December 12, 2013

      thats a stupid comment because the same other races you speak of are moving towards legalization the NY state just sent in a proposition for legalization there are 5-7 states in the US in that cannabis is legal, the gov. of Israel are researching the medicinal aspects of cannabis, Uruguay cannabis is now legal so what are you talking about stay informed don’t be an idiot…..

      • Justice and Truth
        December 13, 2013

        They legalize other immoralities as they are quickly going down slippery slopes. They are not far from that.
        When will the Lord come to put an end to them and reclaim his world?

    • YOUTH
      December 12, 2013

      I forgot medical marijuana is legal in 20 states and DC… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXKjRkkoIOU

    • IMSHALLA
      December 12, 2013

      Yes it is the miost important discussion for Africans. It can stop the spread opf the Sahel and can be the basis of the Afrcan Industrial Revolution without a doubt it is hthe most important thing for Africans or if you prefer Black people to discuss as it has to do with as fundamental human right to grow what you want.

      • Justice and Truth
        December 13, 2013

        Will it prevent the spread of AIDS – HIV?

  36. Jay
    December 11, 2013

    I have just one question. Would you want a lawyer to present your case in court when he/she is high on ganja?

    • Anonymous
      December 11, 2013

      when u get sick and go to the DR have u ever wonder what he or she is high on. just saying and this your life

    • Justice and Truth
      December 11, 2013

      :lol: :lol: :lol: Wise question. It looks like it if some of them take illegal drugs; if they are also legislated. It will be, case adjourned for the day, probably acquitted or closed.

    • Hmmm
      December 12, 2013

      how about when he/she is drunk? cuz rum can b gotten at all spots on island, most attnys probably do drink, but it doesn’t mean they can’t differentiate b/w when it is appropriate or not?

      • Jay
        December 13, 2013

        You are right. Same thing applies. I would not want anyone to represent me when they are drunk By the way, it is an offence to be drunk in public just as it is an offence to drive under influence (DUI) and that does not only cover alcohol but also other substances that affect sound judgement and physical functioning.

    • Student at College
      December 12, 2013

      In a discussion previous to that he stated that he cannot use marijuana to do legal work because he merely uses it to sleep at night or before he reads a book…

    • Yes I Do
      December 12, 2013

      I know of Lawyers, Doctors, Senators and other high ranking individuals who use Cannabis and are able to perform their duties efficiently.

      I am a now studying to obtain my bachelors degree in child psychology and truthfully I can say that I do not abuse cannabis but it surely does help when studying or taking an exam…. I am willing to show a copy of my transcript as well as other degrees i hold in the education and social welfare field. Started smoking when i was about 16 growing up in Dominica and a lot of years later i have not lost my virtue as a woman…… so yes, it should be legalized and like everything else it is up to the users to do so moderately.

      • Malgraysa
        December 12, 2013

        What example are you setting for the children you plan to help after you qualify? Ironically you may end up being your own psychologist as the chances are great you will be suffering from schizophrenia by your early twenties since you started smoking weed when you were only sixteen. Why take the risks?

    • natural
      December 12, 2013

      oor drunk on alcohol!!! is all how it is used

  37. MZUNGU
    December 11, 2013

    Utterly irresponsible and populistic gesture…why not to cultivate illicit raw opium? why not?
    Instead of fighting for better sanitary regulations in Dominica or prevent inflow of products dangerous for health and thus contribute to healthcare improvement Mr Shillingford talking nonsense and contaminating minds of young people which has not yet intellectual capacity to argue with such populistic rhetoric! utterly irresponsible and outrageous!

    • Zouk
      December 12, 2013

      Mr. Shillingford what example are you setting for the young people. The country is trying to curb on the use of drug to cultivate a healthy generation but you are boasting of using herb from since 13 year old. Is it that your names makes you so special to go about it openly?

  38. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013
    • Donk.
      December 12, 2013

      Very informative everybody needs to watch this!

    • Non_Smoker
      December 12, 2013

      Brilliant documentary! We have been fed a lot of lies. There is no reason to keep this plant illegal. This law is downright ridiculous!

  39. Anonymous
    December 11, 2013

    I cannot believe that is the level of discussion coming from Henry Shillingford and Tyanni. These guys are supposed to be learned people. They sure do not sound like they graduated from law school. This is high school quality arguments being put forth by these gentlemen.

    • Commentor
      December 11, 2013

      Dear Anonymous, you’re comment is invalid, irrelevant and STUPID to say the least. Mr. Behanzin and Mr. Shillingford held a educating panel discussion with the youth. They educated the youth about the “herb/plant”, so they could have first hand knowledge on the issue rather than taking to the streets. You sit here behind a computer screen judging them about their “education level” and you sound like a moron. SMH. I hope the brain cells that died whilst you typed out that piece of junk you call a “comment”, got AT-LEAST a peaceful semi- decent funeral.

      • MZUNGU
        December 12, 2013

        well calling your opponent stupid shows the level of your ignorance and inability to maintain civilized discussion..but anyway it was foreword
        I fully support the idea that 2 lawyers know about scientific side of plant as much as I know about chemistry on the surface of Jupiter. They don’t hold any scientific degree in the chemistry. As the matter of fact they are both lawyers which means they specialize in demagogy and ability to prove that black is white and white is black depending in circumstances. Don’t make me laugh that they educate anybody..they merely can express their opinion.
        Now, expressing opinion to younger kids is a risky business because you indoctrinate them and innocent young minds believe into different ideas which itself can easily be invalid and morally corrupt.
        Did you ever think that such expressing of opinion might be more detrimental than a job of drug dealer on the street? Why? Simply because a drug dealer is a social scum..a garbage of society which plagues on a weaknesses and imperfections of human body and soul…its like street cancer. But because of lowlife nature of drug dealer..he can be distinguished and his opinion is always biased and with minimal education you can avoid their influence…Another story with such lawyers: they are educated, in Dominica context they are rich people by all means, they are opinion makers for certain extent and of course once they open mouths people listen them. If they tell ganja is okey then those gentleman mean no harm..they just educating…
        Similar story with black music stars..do you think its normal when Rihanna inhales ganja and post pics in Twitter…does that b### understands at all that she sends message to younger kids that making drugs is okey?

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      It is pathetic that this is the level Henry has stooped to. He is a great disappointment and no doubt embarrassing to his family.

  40. Sisserou
    December 11, 2013

    Did this attorney just admitted to breaking the laws of Dominica. Is he not an officer of the court sworn to uphold the laws on the land? Is there an ethics committee within the Dominica Bar Association that can conduct an investigation to determine if his license to practice law should be suspended or revoked based on his admittance that he broke the law? I am not commenting on whether marijuana should be legalized or not. However, the learned counsel should approach the matter through the legal channels and not by violating the laws he swore to uphold.

  41. Marlpardee
    December 11, 2013

    Here we go… They want to follow america. Will u stop it! A bunch of copy cats. For u to sit here and talk about making not eating food a law , the marijuana really go up in your head. Why would you compare food with making herb legal. Wrong road my brother and u and yur death statistics , smoke is smoke. U can get lung cancer from smoking marijuana , is smoke….. And u talking about da not how many people dying in america from alcohol.

    • Anonymous
      December 11, 2013

      Smoke is smoke, so does that apply to smoke meat and BBQ products?
      Smoke is smoke, then why is it that we allow cigarette smoking to be legal?

      • Justice and Truth
        December 12, 2013

        You are not thinking straight. They are not legalized that it makes it mandatory to eat and take them. People are free to do so if they so wish. Those who do, do so voluntarily. These people want illegal drugs legislated. This is the difference.`

      • December 12, 2013

        If we had known years ago what we know now about tobbaco it is not likely cigarettes would be legal.

        Fot starters it is a proven fact that fifty percent of tobacco smokers WILL die of a disease caused by tobbaco smoke. The statistics from across Canada prove this has been happening for many years in my country.

        I am afraid people may look back someday on the legalization of marijuana and curse those who legalized it the way some of us now curse those who legalized tobacco. If you think “curse” is too strong a word it may be because you have never watched a loved one die of lung cancer.

        Those who do not know their history are prone to repeat its mistakes.

        It is a foolish thing to campaign now for the legalization of marijuana before the studies are finished and published. Not nearly enough is know yet about this weed. What is known certainly does not commend its use for smoking!

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

      • December 14, 2013

        There is a difference between eating smoked or BBQ meat and inhaling smoke from a burning cigarette or joint. :oops:

        (a) It is a different kind of smoke; from burning wood or coals compared to burning weed. :-D

        (b) One goes into your stomach and the other goes into your lungs. :wink:

        Studies have shown that there are health risks from eating too much BBQ meat. :( I have no idea how much is too much and suspect moderation might be the key. :-|

        The meat has nutritional value. As far as I know tobacco and marijuana have none. (If I am wrong please inform me.) :-P

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist. :lol:

    • -
      December 11, 2013

      Yeah, smoke is smoke true. But if you vaporize it then no smoke; straight THC. Problem solved.. :)

      • December 14, 2013

        However you take it…

        Smoking, inhaling, swallowing, or injecting…

        if it makes you HIGH it is taking away your control, impairing your judgment, and robbing you of your common sense. :cry:

        Better to leave it alone. :lol:

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

  42. ummmm
    December 11, 2013

    Decriminalise it yes, but by no means make it legal. Its a drug – be it created by man or God – still a drug and has effects like everything else on the human body – my concern isn’t much for grown adults who wants to kill off brain cells in the name of ‘rastafarianism’, my concern is for the children of these men and women – who usually have no choice.

    Just as there are many reasons for the legalisation, there are twice as many for it to remain illegal.

    There should be a review of the law so that penalties are less on the other hand there should be reviews to protect young children and the rest of society.

    • 1love
      December 12, 2013

      Dominica have one hai sort people eh. Calling herbs a drug, God dont make drugs. And Those of you talking down on rasta you should know that they are the only people connected to the High Power through consciousness. This here does not destroy brain cells, I think you all should seek knowledge and stop repeating western bullshit. This herb is harmless, never kill no one but all of all you not talking down on cigarette and Rum? Man make drugs, I bet allyou taking pills, Things that man made and tell you is good for you. I sorry for allyou we.

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      Some babies are born with this addiction. Imagine some mothers and mothers-to-be putting their unborn babies through that in their wombs.

      • Anonymous
        December 12, 2013

        You’re comments are so elementary and you think you know so much about herb but you need to open your mind and not your mouth.
        Like. It or not, the entire world is on a drive to once again make Herb free for every man, woman and child.
        What has been hidden from the wise and prudent shall be revealed to the babies and sucklings.

        Legalize the Herb

    • Hmmm
      December 12, 2013

      WTF?!

    • Hmmm
      December 12, 2013

      ” my concern is for the children of these men and women – who usually have no choice.”
      So, anyone careless enough to give their child mj isn’t worried about a law. think of all the laws in place to prevent grown men from raping underage girls….yet it continues rampantly at all levels of society. child abuse is child abuse.
      i’m certain that, just like alcohol, if mj were to be legalized it would be restricted to adults. with the new income to the country perhaps we can provide parenting classes to so many parents who need it.

  43. independent thinker
    December 11, 2013

    I would like to congratulate Claudius Sanford for raising the idea at the 25th anniversary of the U W P in Londonderry, this is something to talk about, it is a natural plant created by the creator that we all believe in, prior to medical science it was the use of the herb that man used for cures, in the last few years that science has surfaced to most academics it is like the herb has no place in society, have we ever stop to research the herb on our own and find out all of the helpful uses the plant can have, do we know who criminalize the herb and why dose Souvringty mean anything to our law makers, don’t you think that people from the developed world lye to us so that they can continue to supply us with all their pseudo stuff? getting rich on our heads, it is time to put on our thinking caps

  44. really?
    December 11, 2013

    i agree with every word he says. if marijuana can be illegal then cigarette should be as well. marijuana is a very good herb which doesnt really cause damage to the body. atleast it helps in many way. can cigarettes help the body? hell no!! it only kills you and so do alcohol and them koshoni fast food. altho i love my spicey chicken by kfc. lol. but seriously.marijuana should be legalized in dominica. it helps cold and more. fix that law. cause it also helps u to release stress and meditate. when im stressed i smoke my marijuana. and we have too many hypocretes in dominica.like the police. do you believe that when the police finds all these weeds that they really burns them? well i dont. i believe they only burns some and smoke the rest. case close!!

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      It is not enough to say legalize them and utilize the argument for cigarettes and liquor.
      For your information, in Canada, the Law is, cigarettes and liquor are no longer advertised on TV or elsewhere.
      Pertaining to cigarettes, the stores, as convenience stores which sell them were required to keep them away, i.e., they are not out in the open for all to see and are hidden behind an enclosure. Customers who want to purchase them must ask for them. They are not sold in grocery and drug stores.
      Customers must be of the legal age limit to purchase them or must show an ID indicating that they are of age just as to purchase liquor.
      In the case of cigarettes, those who smoke cannot smoke anywhere. Since then, fewer adults drink liquor and smoke cigarettes. All these for health purposes even though some are not yet ill. Some people decided to quit drinking and smoking.
      We have some stringent rules. Those who have a bottle of liquor especially in vehicles and in public must keep them closed and hidden. They cannot drink in public. If seen by the police and also are creating a nuisance, disturbing the peace, they will be arrested.
      Canada’s Prime Minister will not legalize marijuana and the likes even though some people take it for pain purposes. These drugs in the form of pills are monitored and sold at drug stores with a doctor’s prescription.
      If these drugs are legalized, will the same apply? Where children are concerned, will the government be able to control the sale and avoid children ingesting them?

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 12, 2013

        None sense

  45. The Blackheart Man
    December 11, 2013

    Legalisation fi de gangja herb

  46. 420
    December 11, 2013

    Not to forget that you can manufacture over 22,000 different products from hemp. Oil, medication, rope, clothing, building material/house insulation strongest in the world. And states are now taking advantage of this. Wake up! Look around you! You worship mans inventions but despise those of the creator.

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      What you have stated is nonsense. Do you really think? Are all the trees in Dominica and elsewhere in the world edible – for eating? Are all the animals edible?
      The Creator created all of them. He did not state that those plants should be used to get high on and sell them for profit and also without paying taxes on them.
      Many of them who grow and smoke them have since ignored the Creator and do not recognize him and worship him. Some are so high they do not know what they are doing and saying. Some may not know what day and time of day it is. Need I say more?

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 12, 2013

        No, you need not waste your time because as usual, your contribution is off topic on the discussion at hand……..

        Smoke a few pulls from this marvelous plant and then come chant with us. Only then you will start making a little sense on this topic as you will then have first hand knowledge instead of spewing Rubbish.

        Legalize the Herb

    • December 14, 2013

      420: Those who oppose the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana for smoking acknowledge there are legitimate products that can be made from hemp.

      I understand that some of these products are of a better quality than those being made from other materials.

      We also know that the medical uses of marijuana are being studied and are aware of the fact that this looks promising. I have to admit that I have some catching up to do when it comes to the medical science. The research is ongoing.

      To develop fields of marijuana in any financially disadvantaged nation strictly for the production of legitimate products (including medicines) and factories to produce those products for local sale and exporting would be a tremendous boast!

      The problem is too many people are anxious to get their hands on the weed for smoking. It would cut into the profits to keep the fields and factories secure. In a country where there are already many people – illegally and at risk of arrest – growing, selling, buying, and smoking the weed it seems insane to make it any easier to obtain.

      This is the problem our governments face when they consider the legalization issue.

      I have been writing on this subject since the late 70’s or early 80’s in Canada before I wrote my first comment for DNO in Dominica. To my readers I say this. Thank you for reading me! But please don’t fudge the issue! I am not opposing the production and sale of good and worthy products that can be derived from cannabis or hemp. I see the tremendous potential for these things. It is the abuse of marijuana I and others in my camp are opposed to. We totally oppose the smoking of the weed because we know the harm it does and the problems it creates. It is going to take time to know how to use the plant to its fullest potential without allowing for its abuse if indeed this can be done!

      Just remember when we say NO TO LEGALIZATION it is the recreational use of marijuana (smoking the weed) we are saying NO to! We will be happy if the right uses can be pursued without allowing it to fall into the hands of those who would abuse it.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, D.D., Pentecostal Evangelist. (Diploma in Drugs and Drug Dependence).

  47. Lion
    December 11, 2013

    The business behind getting high. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jT-UIe7l3-Q says it all

  48. Smh
    December 11, 2013

    I expect better from you Henry. Especially in a setting with impressionable young minds, and more so as a fellow attorney.

    First, I will say that your definition of drug leaves much to be desired. There are mushrooms causing high levels of hallucinations outlawed in some countries. Marijuana is a stimulant, it has psychological effects on the body and mind, just like any other drug the amount consumed results in increased effects. How dare you interpret the law as a layman?

    Second, you know very well that a lot of non communicable diseases are caused by genetic factors. You forgot to mention cancer, how about lung cancer what are your views on that?

    And your argument that the law doesn’t want to prevent harm because people are allowed to eat kfc? My grandmother is 88 with diabetes, she has never eaten kfc in her LIFE. It probably didn’t exist then. Really? Many countries including the USA ban trans fat. Perhaps Dominica should do so, however one can suffer diabetes by eating lots of other foods from coconut cheese to guava jam.

    It us very shameful that the occasion called for a high level of intellectual exchange and I have yo be reading this ridiculous quote from you. This is by no means a personal attack but next time your arguments need to be more intelligent than those I just read.

    A concerned attorney

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      There are different types of mushrooms. There is one that is not edible. It is poison. Some years ago in Montreal, Canada, a man had mushrooms growing in his yard. He did not know the difference. He cooked some and ate them. He died.
      It is said that mushrooms are healthy, the edible ones. I have eaten mushrooms which are sold in the grocery stores but I am not a fan of mushrooms even though they can be used in some recipes.
      Pertaining to people as Henry who want cannabis legislated, what we can say about them is, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they say.”
      May the government never consider legislating it.

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 12, 2013

        Why are you so dearth against Herb when it has so much positive potential?

        Legalize the Herb

      • #
        December 20, 2013

        This is some old man who probably has something personal against it. you refer to “Father in Heaven” in your prayer. The same “Father in Heaven” who gave us the Herb for consumption (smoke, draw, tincture, oil, textile, and the many more uses). So lets play devil’s advocate and say you are God, and you give your children something for their use, and someone like you is adamant on preventing your children from using something that YOU gave to them, whose prayers do you think will be answered? the person who is like you? or his children whom he gave the gift to? I cannot speak for God, nor can you, but common sense padna. Doh put god in your fing when you talking about going against his creations. Allu finding everything wrong with weed but homosexuality running rampant.

      • #
        December 20, 2013

        This is some old man who probably has something personal against it, or some religious fanatic. You refer to “Father in Heaven” in your prayer. The same “Father in Heaven” who gave mankind the Herb for consumption (smoke, draw, tincture, oil, textile, and the many more uses). So lets play devil’s advocate and say you are God, and you give your children something for their use, and someone like you is adamant on preventing your children from using something that YOU gave to them, whose prayers do you think will be answered? the person who is like you? or his children whom he gave the gift to? I cannot speak for God, nor can you, but common sense padna. Doh put god in your fing when you talking about going against his creations. Allu finding everything wrong with weed but homosexuality running rampant.

    • BOOM BOOM
      December 12, 2013

      TO CONCERNED ATTORNEY. YOUR PRESENTATION IS RATHER WEAK AS IT SOUNDS LIKE A LAYMAN PRESENTATION.

      You yourself as a lawyer is rather disappointing. First of all you took some of what the guy said out of context. With all your intelligence you claim to have you cant even figure out what MR. Shillingford was implying. First of all dummy lawyer the KFC was just an example he did not mean that its ONLY the KFC causing illnesses. He meant some of those food we eat do cause illnesses so to bring up your granny with diabetes who never had KFC in her life should NOT EVEN be mentioned.

      in addition, when MR/ Shillingford mentioned “Now if (the law) is to prevent harm why don’t they stop people from going to KFC? Or eating pork? That is to imply that the law against the weed is simply ridiculous because they claim that it is against the law cause it can have serious effects on your body;bUt THEN this is NOT SO cause all those other foods we eat cause more harmful effects on the body than the weed does. Meaning the argument that weed is illegal cause it has harmful effects on the body is crap while other foods cause worst effects on the body and its legal. Take alcohol and Cigarettes for example. they have worst effects on the body but then it is legal.

    • Donk.
      December 12, 2013

      keep it illegal so u can continue making your money!
      :twisted:

      • Yes I Do
        December 12, 2013

        lol

    • IMSHALLA
      December 12, 2013

      It would be nice if you identified yourself at least mr Shillingford and Beyanzin did so and stood on their position you should also have attended the debate as an attorney I think you would appreciate that speaking withiout all the facts is a dngerous thing. As well organise your own debate and represent the anti legalisation position.

  49. Thinking
    December 11, 2013

    Wow!!! So let’s see Pappy wants it, Behanzin wants it, Henry Shillingford wants it. Who else?

    • DominicanUK
      December 11, 2013

      Me! I do too! Lol. Seriously.

    • Justice and Truth
      December 12, 2013

      Not me! :lol: :lol: :lol:

      Better give me KFC and pork. :lol: :lol: :lol:

      • Ganja Farmer
        December 12, 2013

        You are what you eat.

    • HIDREN
      December 12, 2013

      i want it

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