Tasmanian independent MP Craig Garland, who is likely to face court after allegedly testing positive for cannabis during a roadside drug test, has denied he was driving “whacked up” when the incident occurred, calling it a case of bad timing. The MP, who holds a crucial balance-of-power position in the state’s parliament, was pulled over by police during a safety blitz in the state’s northwest on Saturday.
Positive Test Leads to Court Summons
Mr Garland, 60, confirmed he had been tested positive for cannabis following a roadside test, which involved a tongue scrape. Police also reportedly found “a few specs” of cannabis in a tobacco pouch in his car. Tasmania Police later confirmed that the MP would be summoned to court after both the positive drug test and the discovery of controlled substances in his vehicle.
While Mr Garland has not been formally charged yet, he anticipates that his secondary saliva test will also come back positive for THC, the active compound in cannabis. “I assume it’ll test positive for THC and I’ll get a summons to appear in court,” he told reporters on Friday.
Despite the looming legal implications, the MP has made it clear that he does not plan to contest the matter. He explained that the cannabis he consumed was part of his regular use for pain relief, particularly from the long-term effects of a broken leg. “I had a smoke the night before. I’m not contesting it. I use cannabis on and off for pain relief, but I don’t have a medical prescription,” Garland said.
A Personal Matter, Not an Out-of-Control Situation
In a bid to calm any concerns about his fitness to hold office, Garland emphasized that he was not impaired while driving. “I wasn’t whacked up. It was just bad timing,” he said. “I wasn’t driving under the influence. I’m perfectly fine to be on the roads.”
The incident has prompted renewed discussions about cannabis use and its legal implications, particularly in regard to politicians. Though Garland’s personal use of cannabis is not uncommon in Australia, it has sparked questions over whether those in positions of power should be subject to stricter scrutiny when it comes to drug use.
While he hasn’t faced any criminal charges at this stage, the situation serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding cannabis use, especially in regions like Tasmania, where cannabis remains illegal for recreational use, though it is sometimes used for medicinal purposes under strict conditions.
Awaiting Further Developments
Garland, who is known for his advocacy on various progressive issues, including cannabis reform, said he was waiting for the results of the follow-up saliva test before making further comments. If the results confirm the presence of THC, Garland is expected to receive a court summons for possessing a controlled substance and for driving with traces of cannabis in his system.
Though the politician’s personal use of cannabis for medical reasons has long been known, the issue has sparked fresh debate on the broader conversation about drug laws and politicians’ rights to make personal decisions regarding health and wellness. However, until the legal process runs its course, Garland remains confident that the matter will be resolved.
Emily Wilson is a talented wordsmith whose passion for cannabis shines through in her eloquent articles that explore the plant’s cultural significance and historical context. With a focus on arts and lifestyle, she weaves together narratives that celebrate the creativity, innovation, and community fostered by cannabis enthusiasts worldwide. Emily’s unique perspective and engaging storytelling invite readers to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation for the diverse facets of the cannabis experience.
