First licence secured for cannabis cultivation locally

Wednesday 24 November 2021

The first licence has been issued for the cultivation of medicinal cannabis in the island.

The Bailiwick of Guernsey Cannabis Agency is now able to issue licences after the States signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK Home Office earlier this year.

Seven applications for licences have been received so far. Each application is reviewed by the Agency and the Home Office. The application process concludes with a site inspection.

“We’re delighted to have been able to approve an application from one business,” said Deputy Al Brouard, President of the States' Committee for Health and Social Care.

“The granting of the first licence represents a significant success, not only for the company itself but also the regulatory framework we put in place and agreed with the UK. We had seven applications and that in itself is very promising. I would encourage them to re-apply if they feel able to make the adjustments needed.”

The medicinal cannabis industry has been championed by Deputy Neil Inder, President of the Committee for Economic Development, as potentially an important economic sector for island.

“This is a new sector to Guernsey, so it’s really important we get it right in terms of meeting international standards,” said Deputy Inder.

“The development of this sector is important as part of efforts to diversify our economy wherever possible.”