National Cannabis Advisory Committee of Dominica

The National Cannabis Advisory Committee in Dominica represents a significant step in the island’s approach to cannabis policy reform, economic diversification, and public health strategy. The committee brings together stakeholders from the government of Dominica, the health sector, the agricultural sector, and the legal sector to guide the development of a sustainable, regulated cannabis industry.

Mandate and Purpose

The committee’s primary mandate is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the health, legal, economic, and social implications of cannabis use and production in Dominica. The goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for national policy, including potential law reforms and frameworks for responsible use.

Key objectives include:

• Reviewing the public health impact of both medicinal and recreational marijuana.
• Evaluating the economic opportunities of local cannabis cultivation and processing.
• Proposing regulatory models aligned with international best practices.
• Exploring the implications of legalization or decriminalization from a social justice perspective.
• Recommending mechanisms for public education and community awareness.

Committee Composition

The National Cannabis Advisory Committee is chaired by Dr. Kenneth Darroux, former Minister for Health and Wellness. Two co-chairs support him:

• Ryan Anselm – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture.
• Dr. Kyra Paul – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health.

Other members include representatives from:

• The Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs
• National Security agencies
• The private sector
• Traditional herbal practitioners
• Academic and agricultural institutions

This diverse composition ensures a multi-sectoral approach to cannabis policy development.

Strategic Role and Road Map

A key deliverable for the committee is the creation of a National Cannabis Industry Road Map. This roadmap will outline strategies for:

• The introduction of regulated cannabis farming and smallholder inclusion.
• Licensing systems for cultivation, processing, and distribution.
• Establishing a National Cannabis Regulatory Commission to oversee compliance and standards.
• Encouraging innovation and research within the sector.
• Integrating cannabis policy into Dominica’s climate resilience and economic revitalization agenda.

National Implications

The work of the National Cannabis Advisory Committee will directly influence the legislative agenda, shape Dominica’s international trade readiness, and provide a pathway for local entrepreneurs and farmers to participate in the growing global cannabis economy. It reflects Dominica’s cautious but progressive shift toward a framework that balances economic opportunity, public safety, and health responsibility.