Postgraduate Studies
A Framework for Workplace Policies Following the Decriminalisation of Cannabis
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Office of Research, Impact and Postgraduate Studies
presents a Postgraduate Seminar on
A Framework for Workplace Policies Following the Decriminalisation of Cannabis: The Impact of Cannabis Use on Human Resource Management in Trinidad and Tobago
by Mr. Al SalandyThe decriminalisation of cannabis has contributed to a complex issue that impacts the practice of Human Resource Management. This study considers the extent of cannabis consumption by members of the local workforce and the disparity between revised legislation and workplace policies.
The popularity of cannabis use and its perceived effects on indentured immigrant labour attracted concerns and restrictions during the late 1880s. During the 1960s, many countries adopted law criminalising the possession and use of the plant. The ensuing ‘War on Drugs’ influenced employers to align their HR policies with the law, contributing to the practice of employment-related testing for the presence of cannabis. Arguments in favour of maintaining the status quo have been based on concerns for public health and safety while the access to cannabis for medicinal and sacramental purposes have been featured in calls for change.
Although governments have revised their legal position on cannabis, employers have been slow to pronounce on the matter or investigate the likelihood that members of the working population use cannabis while off duty.
The current study is deductive in nature and relies on a comprehensive review of previous studies, scholarly articles and mainstream media reports. Secondary and tertiary data include examination of the history of cannabis use and labour relations; mental and social consequences of using the drug; and global trends towards improving workplace policies.
To gather primary data, a mixed-methods research design will be utilised. This will involve a descriptive survey among employees in tertiary education institutions, followed by structured interviews with human resource professionals who possess executive management experience within the tertiary education sector.
This study aims to reduce the potential for related workplace disputes and may influence the distribution of resources for drug testing, staff wellness and drug education. Additionally, the study might help influence general cannabis use, the ability to participate in the workforce, future changes in related legislation and the qualification criteria for staff to access insurance and health plans.
Wednesday 21st February 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
Mr. AL SALANDY is a Senior Human Resource Offcer at The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) addressing the extent of cannabis use and application of related workplace policies.
Al has over twenty-five years’ progressive experience in Banking, Financial Asset Management, Credit Union Governance and Human Resources. He has served the University community for the last fifteen years in the areas of HR Service Delivery and Industrial Relations. He is also an approved Instructor for entrepreneurship courses.
His academic journey includes an Associate of Arts in Labour Studies from the Cipriani College of Labour & Co-operative Studies, a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Australian Institute of Business, followed by a Master of Science in Innovation, Manufacturing Management and Entrepreneurship from UTT.
Mr Salandy’s research explores the impact of cannabis use, decriminalisation, and workplace policies for HR Management. This study shall develop a comprehensive framework for navigating this evolving landscape in Trinidad and Tobago.
