Bill Blair, Toronto police-chief turned Organized Crime Reduction Minister and head of the Liberals’ cannabis file, announced the federal government has earmarked $24.5M for 26 cannabis research projects and public awareness programs across Canada.

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Even while making the announcement, Blair felt it necessary to disassociate from any accusation he encourages cannabis use, saying, “It is not the government of Canada’s intention to promote the use of this drug, but for adults who choose to use it, we think it’s absolutely critical that they have the ability to make safer and healthier choices.”

Which is strange, considering that at least some of the studies will explore cannabis as an effective medicine for such issues as migraines, as well as pain, anxiety, and neurological disorders.

In fact, much of Blair’s speech was about cannabis’s medical potential.

“The work that is done here … is going to make the world a better, healthier and safer place,” he said. “It makes us a leader in the world because the world is looking to Canada, [which] is now a place where research can take place.”

In other news, a Cowen and Co. survey found Canadian cannabis use is at a record level, double that which was previously reported, aided by the popularity of still-illicit edibles. Meanwhile, Canadians are drinking less beer.