I am disappointed there has been a series of robberies targeting cannabis retail locations across the country. This did not have to happen. After speaking to several law enforcement individuals throughout Canada, there is consensus that it is time to change the policy which mandates window coverings. Enough is enough. 

Health Canada and provincial authorities’ belief that window coverings are a public safety measure has now proven not to be true. Such a requirement is offside with generally accepted security protocols, and it must end. Window coverings clearly violate occupational health and safety requirements for both employees and consumers.

I have been working on this issue since I was at Fire & Flower. During that time, several discussions were held with Health Canada and the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. It prompted Fire & Flower to develop and implement its own policy (see below) to protect our employees and consumers.  The BC Attorney General, David Eby, even ruled that window coverings need to be removed to ensure a safe and secure environment. Such leadership must be replicated across the country.

We are asking that law enforcement organizations, provincial/territorial regulators, Attorney Generals, the Federal Ministers of Public Safety and Health recognize this unsafe environment and support the implementation of a policy that allows for the immediate removal of window coverings at cannabis retail locations.  

Canadians should see into a store as there is absolutely no risk to public health. Closing off any view to the outside has proven to be dangerous for those who shop and work in these locations. The cannabis retail industry needs to be treated the same as any other retailer. Not only is this equitable, but most importantly, it is fundamental to the health and safety of Canadians regardless of whether you consume cannabis. 

Let’s be safe and secure as the Holiday season begins.