Quebec: ban on self-cultivation of cannabis goes to the Supreme Court of Canada

It's almost the end of a (very) long court case that began in September 2019, that Newsweed assiduously follows. Thirtysomething Jannick Murray-Hall wants Quebecers to have the right to grow cannabis at home. Problem: Quebec provincial law forbids it. An incongruity, since in the rest of Canada (except Manitoba), it's permitted to grow four plants at home.

This case is a waltz with a thousand beats. First, Jannick Murray-Hall is convicted at first instance. Then this judgment is annulled by the Quebec Superior Court. But the government appeals, and contests the decision. The case is now before the Quebec Court of Appeal, the province's highest court. And the three judges finally vindicate the government... and the self-cultivator must therefore be condemned.

Is it over? No. Not yet. «We're gearing up for the third round: the Supreme Court of Canada! We'll keep you posted on any developments.», says Murray-Hall's lawyer, Maxime Guérin, on Facebook.

The accused is also the founder of Gorafi québécois

The case will now go to the Supreme Court of Canada. This time, it's certain: it's the final step. The Court, located in the capital Ottawa, is Canada's highest court. When it renders a decision, it is automatically final. Jannick Murray-Hall won't have the chance to challenge it.

This case has become emblematic. On the one hand, because of its length and its many twists and turns. On the other hand, because if it wins, Quebecers will be able to grow four cannabis plants at home. A measure eagerly awaited by pot - as they say over there - who feel discriminated against compared to other Canadians. They can grow legally.

Finally, the case is also emblematic for the figure of the main defendant. Jannick Murray-Hall is no stranger to Quebec. Quite the contrary, in fact. He is also the founder of Journal de Mourréal, a site parodying the sensationalism of the tabloid Le Journal de Montréal. But this Gorafi was forced to close in 2019, following complaints lodged by the Montreal daily. Jannick Murray-Hall therefore has revenge to take with the law, and intends to pocket a victory.