Article content continued

He said he expects experienced workers from soon-to-be-outlawed private cannabis operations in Ontario will likely apply for those jobs so they can receive higher union wages.

But the president of the Canadian Association of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries said he’s not so sure the government staff can be trained in time, adding he’s disappointed the government is “missing an opportunity” by cutting out existing operations and their experienced staff.

Jeremy Jacob said dispensaries require front-line workers to have a much more nuanced knowledge of their products than a typical LCBO outlet.

“What dispensary technicians do is determine the experience level, the tolerance someone has, and recommend appropriate products to ensure they have a good experience,” he said.

“That level of care and attention isn’t present in liquor stores and it’s not something where you can flip a switch and suddenly ensure people are getting the advice they need.”

Meanwhile, Greg Engel, CEO of Organigram, a licensed producer of medicinal cannabis, said the government’s target of training front-line staff by next July is “achievable and reasonable” and also vitally important.

“Having a knowledgeable staff that is able to convey what the expected effect is for individuals who are purchasing product and the duration of the effect and what they should experience and what’s right for them based on what they’re looking for, that’s critical,” he said.

Thomas said the 40 stores will likely require about 200 new union members and that could eventually grow to 1,000 or more.

He said there’s no downside to the Ontario decision and encouraged other provinces to follow along.

— With files from Armina Ligaya.

Follow @HealingSlowly on Twitter.