Parliament says the Justice and Correctional Services Portfolio Committee is currently considering amendments to the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill, with specific focus on changes that relate to cannabis and children.

READ THE LATEST VERSION OF THE CANNABIS FOR PRIVATE PURPOSES BILL HERE

On 22 September 2023, Portfolio Committee chairman Bulelani Magwanishe (pictured above) said: "the proposed amendments relate specifically to children, (persons under 18 years of age). The committee has invited interested parties and stakeholders to make written submissions on alternative solutions by which to address the issue of the prohibited use, possession and cultivation of, or dealing in, cannabis by children, with due regard to the best interest of the child. The statement continued; "The alternative methods proposed by the committee are that the child must be dealt with outside of the criminal justice system, in terms of the Children’s Act of 2005, the Prevention of and Treatment from Substance Abuse Act of 2008 or any other relevant legislation.” Submissions must be received by no later than 13 October 2023. Enquiries may be directed to Mr V Ramaano. Submissions must be emailed to cannabisbill@parliament.gov.za.

Copies of the extended Bill with amendments under consideration may be obtained from Mr V Ramaano, cell: 083 709 8427 or www.parliament.gov.za ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON JUSTICE AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR BULELANI MAGWANISHE. For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer: Name: Rajaa Azzakani (Ms)Tel: 021 403 8437Cell: 081 703 9542E-mail: razzakani@parliament.gov.za