ARUC Acts Over Low-THC Cannabis Outlet Near Gżira School

The Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis has acknowledged concerns over the opening of a commercial outlet selling low THC cannabis products close to Stella Maris College in Gżira.

In a statement, the Authority said it understands and empathises with the worries expressed by parents, educators and members of the public, stressing that the protection of minors remains a central priority.

ARUC explained that while it exercises strict oversight over non profit cannabis harm reduction associations, it does not currently have the statutory authority to regulate commercial operators selling products containing less than 0.2 per cent THC.

The Authority said it was involved in drafting new legislation intended to introduce formal regulation and enforcement for such outlets. The proposed Bill is currently undergoing the necessary clearances.

The regulator added that it has been in direct contact with the College’s Director and is working with relevant entities to explore all possible measures within the existing legal framework. It pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely while pursuing what it described as a robust legislative solution.

In a follow up statement, ARUC said immediate action had been taken in coordination with the Planning Authority. Advertisements linked to the outlet have since been removed.

The Authority reiterated that Malta’s cannabis reform was never intended to promote normalisation and said responsible oversight and the safeguarding of minors remain fundamental principles underpinning the framework.

#MaltaDaily