No matter what the outcome of the current cannabis debate in Parliament, Government will be faced with a critical decision that should be based, not on what might be popular, but what is the right thing to do, to prevent a “marijuanagate” opening, with no way to legally close it.

It is a highly controversial subject, that has many families in a mute state, because so many have, or are engaging in, the use of cannabis which is illegal.

The United States is in the midst of a raging debate over how far to go, in regulating the use of cannabis for medical purposes, and easing the legal implications for private use.

Some states have already opened the floodgates on marijuana use, and medical experts have issued stark warnings, that such a move will enhance the already drug addiction epidemic in many parts of America.

Most experts seem to favour tight restricted control of the substance for medical purposes, especially in cases where chronically ill cancer patients could get relief from suffering.

What authorities have been toiling with, is how to respond to medical opinions that restricted control of cannabis, would not contain cracks in legislation, that would provide loopholes for addicts to slide through, in seeking the substance for its toxic effect.

It is a problem facing many politicians in the US who are caught between what constituents feel is popular, and what is best for clean positive quality living. In politics, that can be extremely tricky.

Before making any decision, our Government must examine an ocean of information, spelling out the pros and cons of cannabis use, and the effects on the mind along with other health risk.

Before making any decision, our Government must examine an ocean of information, spelling out the pros and cons of cannabis use, and the effects on the mind along with other health risk.

With evidence that young minds are more vulnerable to potential harmful effects, something well researched by numerous medical authorities, it would be foolhardy to dismiss such findings as being out of step with the times.

While many families have been ripped apart by illegal drugs, and the same can be said regarding alcohol which is legal, it would be irresponsible to give the impression that cannabis is nothing more than a harmless substance that can be tossed aside with no ill effects whatsoever.

Families who really care about their children, and their future, should also be concerned about any substance, legal or illegal, that has the potential to damage brain cell activity before full development.

To ignore this, would also threaten generations yet unborn. A positive turn after years of discussion, is that our Parliamentarians may soon face random drug testing which should have been implemented years ago.

These people are elected not because they are perfect, but because they are expected to uphold standards that promote a healthy and sound society.

Politicians seeking office should be committed to doing what is right, and not what they feel suits them.

This issue of regulating cannabis is indeed a challenge, and must be met with careful and thoughtful consideration, because everyone will not be pleased, no matter what is decided in the best interest of our children, and our communities.

Closing our doors, and adopting a denial stance to the damage already caused by numerous illegal substances, will only prolong the struggle to keep our Bermuda house clean.

It is a struggle that should involve every Bermudian.