Seven applications for Guernsey cannabis cultivation licences have been received following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK Home Office relating to cannabis.
For the first time, the MoU has enabled businesses to apply to cultivate Cannabis-Based Products Medicinal (CBPM). Most of the applications received aim to produce these products.
Any business wishing to cultivate cannabis within the Bailiwick must apply for a licence to do so. All applications are made to the Bailiwick of Guernsey Cannabis Agency (BGCA). Established by the Committee for Health & Social Care, the BGCA is responsible for reviewing, regulating, inspecting and licensing cannabis businesses within the Bailiwick. Applications are reviewed, assessed and inspected in partnership with the UK Home Office. Details of the application requirements and process are available here.
Deputy Al Brouard, President of the Committee for Health & Social Care, said: “The new cannabis licencing system has been welcomed by the industry and I’m pleased to see that the changes the Health and Social Care team have implemented have already attracted seven applications. Each will now be thoroughly assessed by the BGCA alongside the Home Office and I look forward to seeing the first licences issued to those that are successful.”
Deputy Neil Inder, President of the Committee for Economic Development, said “It is highly encouraging to see such a positive response from businesses in just a few months since the MoU was signed. These are the early steps of a promising new sector for the Bailiwick, one which is already attracting interest and investment locally and from overseas. Guernsey is now well placed to remain at the forefront of the cannabis industry, and we will continue to support its development.”
