A shop selling cannabis-related products is set to open directly opposite Stella Maris College in Gżira, and the school has already raised the alarm with national authorities, as reported by Times of Malta.In a circular sent to parents and guardians on Tuesday, the college confirmed that a store selling CBD products is preparing to open just across the road. The outlet has not opened yet.School leadership said it immediately contacted key authorities, including the Police Commissioner, the Planning Authority and the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC), calling for an urgent review due to the shop’s proximity to a school.“The college has emphasised its duty of care towards students,” the letter read, stressing the importance of safeguarding minors in an area frequented daily by children and teenagers.Photos from the storefront show cannabis-themed imagery, including leaves, tinctures and edible products. Slogans like “legit way to relax” and “don’t smoke weed to escape reality, do it to enjoy reality even more” are also visible.The Planning Authority has confirmed it is looking into the case.In a statement, ARUC said it understands the concerns raised by parents and educators, stressing that protecting minors remains a priority. However, the authority noted it currently has no legal power to regulate commercial outlets selling products with less than 0.2% THC.ARUC added that it has been working on a new bill aimed at introducing formal regulation for these types of businesses.Malta’s cannabis reform, introduced in late 2021, allows adults to possess small amounts of cannabis and grow plants at home, while use must remain private. Licensed non-profit associations can distribute cannabis to members, but strict rules prohibit advertising or visible signage.The planned Gżira shop is not one of these licensed associations.Credit: Matthew Mirabelli•