Mi’kmaq Chiefs Condemn Nova Scotia's Directive on Cannabis Enforcement

Mi’kmaq chiefs and a former Nova Scotia justice minister have voiced strong opposition to a new provincial directive aimed at intensifying police action against illegal cannabis operations. The directive, issued by Justice Minister Brad Armstrong, calls for police to focus on identifying and dismantling illegal cannabis dispensaries and distribution networks. This move has been perceived by Indigenous leaders as an undermining of relations with First Nations communities

Chief Michelle Glasgow of the Sipekne’katik First Nation expressed her dismay, labeling the directive as a threat to community safety and an act of systemic racism. She criticized the directive for perpetuating negative stereotypes about Mi’kmaq people, stating that it incites hatred and unjustly labels them as a problem. The directive, which also sought cooperation from Mi’kmaq chiefs, has been met with resistance and demands for a reevaluation

The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs, known as Maw-lukutijik Saqmaq, highlighted the province's failure to engage with Indigenous communities during the cannabis legalization process. Chief Terrance Paul emphasized that the province does not have jurisdiction over their communities, criticizing the government’s outdated approach. This sentiment was echoed by former justice minister Becky Druhan, who suggested that the restrictive cannabis regulations contribute to the proliferation of illegal dispensaries

Legal expert Wayne MacKay raised concerns about the potential overreach of the justice minister's directive, which he argues could infringe on police independence. MacKay drew parallels between this directive and actions by political leaders in the U.S., cautioning against governmental interference in police operations. The comparison was dismissed by the provincial Department of Justice as inflammatory, asserting that the directive simply enforces existing law

The controversy underscores the broader issue of cannabis regulation in Nova Scotia, where the legal market is tightly controlled by the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation. Critics, including Druhan, advocate for broader licensing to provide legal pathways for cannabis entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities. As the debate continues, the provincial government faces pressure to balance enforcement with respect for Indigenous rights and economic opportunities