Marijuana growers meet with potential foreign investors

Close to 40 traditional growers of marijuana and their representatives, the majority from North Leeward, met on Saturday, March 22 with a group of foreign investors interested in the medicinal cannabis industry whenever the law legalizing such an industry is passed here.

The meeting, which took place at Mount Wynne beach was very informal and was organized by the SVG Cannabis Revival Committee (SVGCRC).

Addressing the gathering were Junior ‘Spirit’ Cottle, president of the SVGCRC, and representatives of the investors.

According to a release from the SVGCRC, the growers questioned the potential investors about their role in the process and what benefits they could expect.

“The investors assured the growers that they cannot see the process unfolding without their participation, and while they as investors are doing so with the expectation that they will profit from such a venture, they are cognizant that it will not be a profitable business without the full participation of growers and without them getting a just reward,” the release said.

Among the potential benefits pointed out to growers were: improved livelihood, no longer having to sell their produce through a middle man and the benefits to be had from registering with institutions like the National Insurance Services, particularly after age 60.

According to the release, the investors further said that they would like to see that after an agreed number of years, the industry can be owned by Vincentians, managed by Vincentians, for the benefit of Vincentians.

“There was overwhelming excitement amongst the participants on the propects ahead as the meeting came to a close,” the release said.