Marijuana dispensary selling weed to “anyone who needs it”

By Mark Hodgins

HALIFAX – A Halifax “Health and Wellness” Centre is breaking the law–but that’s okay with the owner.

Shirley Martineau runs Auntie’s Health and Wellness Centre on Barrington Street. She says she opened for business four months ago strictly as a medical marijuana dispensary for those with a prescription from a doctor, but now she will unapologetically sell pot to anyone over the age of 19 who needs it.

According to Martineau, some people who need medicinal weed don’t have a doctor or can’t easily get a prescription. She told Global News, she’s very aware of the illegality of what she is doing but thinks it’ll only be a few more months until the federal government changes marijuana laws next year.

“I believe in 4 months it’s going to be legal anyway, so I’m hoping to skirt by,” said Martineau. “I’m hoping that happens.”

Martineau said she doesn’t want to go to jail, but will do what she must in order to help those in need.

“I’m an older woman. I have family and I’m a grandmother. But I believe in this so much that I am taking the chance,” said Martineau, who is 66-years-old. “I am hoping people will understand and back me instead of putting me in jail.”

However, the police aren’t the only possible threat to Martineau and her business.

Municipal spokesperson Tiffany Chase told NEWS 95.7, Auntie’s was denied a business permit because they knew she was selling an illegal product.

“They have been issued an order to comply from the municipality and at this point, at the conclusion of our investigation that they’re continuing to operate in absence of that valid permit,” said Chase. “We’re conferring with our legal department to find out what next steps are in order to bring them into compliance.”

 

 

 

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today