While marijuana might not be welcomed with open arms (for good reasons), you have to admit that the research on the plant is quite fascinating. Through the efforts of innovative Australian doctors, the first clinical trials exploring the benefits of the little green plant’s effect on brain tumors have started. Furthermore, Pennsylvania researchers are looking into the drug as a treatment for PTSD, Parkinson’s and a variety of health issues. However, given these circumstances, one workplace in Canada (of all places) has fired a man for his use of medical cannabis. How did this take place in a country that recently legalized the drug? Let’s take a closer look at the situation and find out.
A Patient’s Plight
Recently, Clayton Hannah had been vying for a job as a millwright at Tolko Industries (a forest products company that distributes building materials), which proudly advertises “inclusion” and a progressive spirit. However, Tolko has not released any information to Canadian news sources regarding their decision to rescind the job offer. Even more ironic, this company’s activity comes at a time when Canada has become the second major world player to legalize the little green plant. However, the irony does not stop there.
Simply put, Clayton suffers from a debilitating, rare form of blood cancer called follicular lymphoma which, sadly, is currently untreatable. However, his doctor prescribed a high-grade THC cannabis oil that is designed to hinder tumor growth and prevent the aggressive illness from spreading. Overall, Hannah was fully aware that the millwright position is sensitive in terms of safety, so he thought it would be best to be fully honest with Tolko. While he passed the urine test one day later, the company still refused his resume and pulled the job. Why was this the case? Tolko claimed Hanna had demonstrated a “lack of trust.”
Alberta Human Rights
At this time, Clayton Hannah is taking his case to Alberta’s provincial authorities and has officially filed a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission on the grounds that Tolko discriminated against him for his illness and treatment. Nevertheless, Canadian law does not defend or protect employees who are taking prescription marijuana (or extracts). Still, the same laws do not require patients to disclose information about their drugs. So, according to officials, Hannah put himself in an awkward position from the start.
Nevertheless, Alison McMahon (founder of Cannabis at Work) believes his case is an example of how workplace policies in Canada need to change.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
