The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has been supported by the majority of pupils at four local schools during a debate exercise at Stormont.
Students from St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook, Newry High School, Newtownhamilton High and St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, gathered in the Assembly this week to debate the issue of legalising cannabis for medicinal uses and for recreational purposes.
The outcome of the debate found that most students were in favour of legalisation for medicinal purposes.
At the same time, only around a third of the pupils voted in favour of legalisation for recreational purposes.
Also attending was SDLP Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty.
He welcomed the event, which was was hosted by ‘Politics in Action’, a fresh initiative providing young people with a voice on current political and social issues.
Mr McNulty said afterwards: “Pupils from all schools gave thoughtful, well-reasoned and interesting arguments on the subject.
“I loved engaging with young people and hearing their strong views and would love to take part in more positive and open discussions in this format.”
