Speaking at Stormont today, he said:
“The SDLP recognises there is a need to have a compassionate response to those with chronic illnesses in need of new treatment. I have met those suffering from constant pain as a result of their conditions.
“That doesn’t need to happen.
“We are broadly supportive of the need for controlled prescription of cannabis for medicinal purposes but we need to look closely and carefully at how we do that and how we can construct a regulatory framework.
“We are currently considering the wealth of expertise and clinical advice in relation to cannabis for medicinal purposes.
“Parties should have that debate sooner rather than later in order to put the needs of those suffering first.
“I recognise that this is a reserved matter with the British Government.
“While Scotland is seeking the devolution of powers to act in the interests of their own patients, taking the decision out of the hands of Theresa May, we have no authority to seek further powers in the absence of institutions.
“We need devolved institutions so that we can act in the interests of patients here.
“People cannot continue to wait in pain,” added the Foyle MLA..