BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – DESPITE growing criticisms, the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) is not backing down on its proposal to decriminalize marijuana use on the island.
According to party member Cory Tyson, they are going full steam ahead with their plans and, if possible, they would engage the Federal Government should the NRP wins the local elections expected in early 2018.
Tyson, speaking with SKNVibes, explained that it was always the NRP’s policy to engage whoever is in control of the Federal Government.
“We will work to do whatever it is that is necessary to ensure that it becomes a reality,” Tyson said.
When it comes to criticisms being levelled against the opposition party in the Nevis Island Assembly for taking such a position, Tyson stated that they are justified because many people are not fully aware of the powers of the NIA.
He hyowever pointed out that they are seeking to correct that through the party’s continued public consultations and press conferences.
Despite that though, Tyson disclosed that they have found ways to work around the Federal Government – thus not needing “their blessings”.
“But, of course, I am hopeful that the Federal Government would see that there are benefits, especially when the NRP is returned to office after the Nevis Island Assembly elections. They will see that this is something for the people and would do what is in the best interest of the people,” Tyson said.
The NRP has been in campaign mode for several months now, frequently hosting press conferences and town hall meetings to get their message over to the voting population.
But some people have heavily voiced their opinions on having the herb legalized, including the Police Force, which believes that it has links to guns and gun crimes.
However, like their opposition counterparts on St. Kitts, officials in the NRP believe that economic benefits could be derived from having the prohibited herb decriminalized.
According to Tyson, without a doubt, there are tax benefits to be gained from having the herb decriminalized, however, the party is pushing to have it more from an agricultural and industrial position.
“We feel that it is a good way to diversify the Nevis economy and introduce some industries that would definitely create jobs and added income and economic growth.”
Tyson did reveal that when officials of the party speak about decriminalizing the plant, it is a general classification – recreational and medicinal purposes.
He however quickly pointed out that it would be done with some limitations, stressing that “decriminalization legislation would go hand-in-hand with our critical pieces of legislation that would put guidelines out there”.
