Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 3/9/2018 (750 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Many Winnipeg residents and businesses are expectantly awaiting the cannabis legalization date of Wed., Oct. 17, which is quickly approaching. Manitoba has established a private enterprise model, rather than operating government-run shops, for retail sales of legal cannabis, which means stores in Winnipeg will operate as private retailers.



In Manitoba, the minimum age to purchase cannabis will be 19, although 18 will be the minimum age to buy accessories.



The province has approved four private companies to sell marijuana, including Delta 9, a Winnipeg company that is already licensed to sell medical marijuana. In addition to these new retail stores, ‘head shops’ and ‘glass shops’ in Winnipeg are also preparing for legalization.



Ariel Glinter, director of business development and regulatory compliance for the Joint Gallery, Tobbaconist and Vape Shop, which has six locations in Winnipeg, including a store on St Mary’s Road in St Vital, is in close communication with local and provincial stakeholders, and is also advising staff about training, inspections, and processes.



The Joint is prioritizing regulatory compliance to ensure that its policies and procedures are appropriate and Glinter says it is committed to encouraging responsible use of cannabis.



As part of this effort, The Joint has in-store education stations, which have been very popular with a curious public. While staff are not authorized to provide legal or medical advice about the legalization and use of marijuana, the education stations provide free, educational materials to anyone who would like more information.



The staff are also a valuable resource for anyone curious about marijuana use and products, which range from vaporizers, bongs, pipes and hookahs to torches, incense, and candles.



Since production of medical marijuana in Manitoba began in 2014, awareness and acceptance of cannabis use has increased, as it has been helpful for many people with health issues, from pain management to quitting smoking.



As cannabis is fully legalized, policy makers and health professionals will need to ensure that the rules around buying and using marijuana are clear and communicated effectively.



Active education efforts and advocacy will be important in terms of ensuring safe and responsible use. Experts agree that new users of cannabis should start slowly and ensure that they are in safe spaces, as they will not have not have a very high tolerance, similar to drinking alcohol for the first time.



In Manitoba, smoking or vaping cannabis will not be permitted in most public spaces, whether indoor or outdoor.



For the most part, people will only be able to use cannabis in private homes, and they will not be able to grow plants at home.



As Canada enters this new post-prohibition era for marijuana, there are plenty of policy, legal, and health considerations at play.