Photo: David Horemans
The Ontario government has said that there will not after all be government-run pot stores. Finance Minister Vic Fedeli today released details of his government’s plan to privatize the sector thereby reversing the Liberal government’s plan. With effect from April 1, 2019 all sales will be made through a retail store model. It will provide particulars of that model following a consultation period. The government will thus become the wholesaler.
The Township of Madawaska Valley, in common with all municipalities, will be given a one-time window during which it can choose to opt out of permitting cannabis retail stores within its boundaries. The government will also provide $40 million to municipalities over two years to help local governments keep their communities safe. Fedeli said,
In order to protect our communities – we have to work closely with our municipalities. In fact they are our essential partners. We are committed to creating a safe retail model that eliminates the illegal cannabis market in Ontario. We are taking a balanced and responsible approach to building a system that works.
In order to fill the gap between October 17, 2018 when the sale of cannabis becomes legal under the federal legislation and the opening of the first store on April 1, 2019, Ontario will provide online availability. It will set up a website whereby consumers can place orders for home delivery. Purchasers aged 19 and older will be able to use this retail platform which will be serviced by the Ontario Cannabis Store.
At the same time, the government announced a zero-tolerance policy, including severely escalating fines, for any retailer or dispensary who continues to operate in the illicit market.
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