At least one cannabis retailer in Kamloops is supportive of the idea to create “cannabis consumption spaces” in British Columbia.
Wednesday morning, the B.C. government floated the idea to allow Amsterdam-like cafes and lounges to be set up, where people can sit around and consume cannabis products.
It defines “cannabis consumption space” as a term for a business or special event that provides cannabis for on-site sale and use with examples including cafes, lounges, concerts or festivals, ticketed events, and spas.
“We have heard from cannabis businesses that consumption spaces could provide an opportunity for the sector to become more economically viable and could better meet the interests of people who use cannabis,” B.C.’s Public Safety Minister, Mike Farnworth, said, in a statement.
“At the same time, others have raised public health and safety concerns, which will need to be carefully weighed. We want to hear the views of all British Columbians so they can help shape how B.C.’s cannabis sector continues to evolve.”
Chris Monteleone, the co-owner of Fiore Fresco in Kamloops, says it could be a good business model, provided the government adjusts the current regulations to create a more level playing field with bars and pubs.
“The liquor industry has full capacity to promote, sponsor, advertise, do cross promotions whereas the cannabis industry simply is not allowed to do that,” he said on the NL Noon Report. “There is no limit to the amount of alcohol an individual can purchase or physically have on them, but there is a limit to cannabis.”
“Unlike a liquor store, we’re also not allowed to sell pop, chips, candy, gum, beef jerky, snacks or any food or drinks for that matter. We can’t do any giveaways, contests, or any sort of points program.”
People will be able to have their say on the matter until May 8, with the government planning to release its findings – along with possible recommendations – later on this year.
“If allowed, consumption spaces would need to align with provincial public health and safety objectives,” the government said, in a statement. “For example, indoor smoking and vaping would continue to be prohibited.”
“The provincial cannabis framework includes a key role for Indigenous and local governments in determining whether and where licensed cannabis sales can take place in their communities. This approach would also apply to cannabis consumption spaces.”
– With files from Paul James
