Sale of Cannabis remains illegal in Kahnawake

10/19/2018

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) is reminding the public that all sales of cannabis in the Territory of Kahnawà:ke are prohibited, regardless of Canada’s legislation on recreational cannabis use.

“There is a lot of misinformation circulating on what is legal and illegal. Cannabis remains a controlled substance, and any sales must be made through a legal, licensed retail outlet,” said Ratsénhaienhs Lloyd Phillips, who holds the Community Safety portfolio. At this point, there is no law in place that would allow for the sale or manufacturing of cannabis in Kahnawà:ke. The community is aware that we are still in the process of developing Kahnawà:ke legislation regarding cannabis, including potential sales, however, it has not been determined whether the community supports the retail sale of this substance in Kahnawà:ke. Until there is a clearer direction from the community, the sale of any Cannabis products is not only prohibited, it is illegal, and any persons doing so can be charged with a criminal offence,” Phillips continued.

“Additionally, the Mohawk Nation at Kahnawà:ke has made its position very clear: they have strong opinions against the creation of a localized cannabis industry” Ratsénhaienhs Phillips added. “This is why it is crucial that the proper feedback from the community be received before our communal law goes into effect which may create a regulatory framework for any and all commercial opportunities with regard to this industry.”

“Canada has put us in a difficult position,” Ratsénhaienhs Phillips concluded. “It is imperative that the community works together because the integrity and well-being of our community could be at stake.”