Cannabis Campaigning In The Emerald Isle

Utopia Nation

Utopia Nation is run by Paul Sheppard and his partner Ella Goddin who is a US national and deeply involved in the twinning arrangements between Cork and San Francisco.  They plan to bring awareness of San Francisco’s medical marijuana services to the people of Ireland.  They are a dynamic and very impressive couple with open minds and hearts, focused on the most laudable aims and ambitions.  I wish I knew more such people in Britain.

With Ella’s two Yorkshire terrier/minature poodle crosses, we seemed set for a confrontation with Carla and Capone but the dogs set us humans a fine example and by the end of the afternoon they were all firm friends, sleeping in a heap while we continued to discuss our favourite subject.

With Richy on camera, Graham then interviewed me about CLEAR and the campaign in Britain.  This should be available in  week or so on YouTube.   We managed to squeeze in a quick visit to the local hostelry and then it was time for the debate.

Richy Sheehy, Paul Sheppard, Ella Goddin, Graham de Barra

Dr Johnny Connolly

The venue was superb.  A tiered lecture theatre, capable of seating 200 people , probably about half full.  My opponent Dr Johnny Connolly of the Irish Health Research Board was already there, as was Gordon McArdle, the legendary Irish medicinal cannabis activist who used to run a medical marijuana dispensary in the Napa Valley, California.  Last year Gordon drafted the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act and presented it to Pat Carey, then minister for the Irish National Drugs Strategy.  It is a model for the regulation of medicinal cannabis which I wholeheartedly endorse. CLEAR will be sending copies to the UK health ministers and asking for their consideration.

The debate was filmed and should be available on YouTube in a few days.  It was a fine occasion with a lively and active audience.  There was passion and argument, scepticism and belief, all in a friendly atmosphere of courtesy and respect.  It was more than fine.  It was magnificent.  There was no rancour, no rudeness, no aggression and no unpleasantness.  It was an example of civilised debate which British activists could learn a great deal from.

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