Bermudians are being given the opportunity to openly discuss the possibility of legalising marijuana with a forum on the topic expected to be held in several weeks.

PLP MP Dale Butler has agreed to moderate the forum. "I am against legalisation," he stated. "However this country needs to address and discuss the issue of decriminalisation."

Decriminalising marijuana would mean those caught with it would be charged with a civil offence and would not be facing a criminal record, he explained. "This issue is getting in the way of other discussions," he said, adding Bermuda needs to have an open and educated discussion, hold a referendum, and make a decision which is binding for seven to ten years.

Organiser Paul Giraud said the forum would be a chance for those interested in having something done on the issue to get together and exchange ideas, similar to last Saturday's Million Marijuana March held at Astwood Park.

Held worldwide every first Saturday in May around the globe, the Million Marijuana March was started by Cures-not-Wars founder Dana Beal. It was held only in New York City as part of the Cures-not-Wars medical marijuana activism campaign until 1999. However it since has spread to over 200 cities internationally.

Only about 50 people showed for the event at Astwood Park (perhaps 20 of which were children), which Mr. Giraud said was more of a gathering and rally. Starting at around 2 p.m. the low-key rally, complete with music and picnics, went on til around 10 p.m.

"It's difficult (to raise awareness about marijuana), especially with the stigma attached here," said Mr. Giraud, adding that marijuana activists were possibly "the most disjointed group on earth".

However legalising marijuana is not just about people who smoke weed, he said. "It's medical, nutritional, industrial." Marijuana has been medically proven to have health benefits for people suffering from certain diseases, he said.