Tasmanian independent MP Craig Garland has admitted to drug-driving just weeks out from the upcoming state election.
He pleaded guilty in Burnie Magistrates Court on Thursday to driving with an illicit substance in his system after a roadside test.
Garland, who represents the north-west seat of Braddon, was elected at the 2024 state poll. He is standing again in next month’s state election.
The former commercial fisherman was pulled over last November while heading to a fishing spot at Montagu, where he returned a positive result for cannabis.
He has previously been open about his cannabis use, saying he had smoked the drug the night before the test, both for recreational reasons and to manage pain.
“As I have not been sentenced by the court, it is not appropriate for me to comment any further on the matter, except to say that, at the time of the roadside intercept, I did not have a prescription for medicinal use of cannabis,” Garland said.
“I do now.”
His lawyer Scott Ashby entered the guilty plea on his behalf. Magistrate Katie Edwards accepted the admission.
The case has been adjourned until September 15 for sentencing, about eight weeks after the July 19 state election.
Under Tasmanian law, first-time drug-driving offenders face a maximum fine of $2,020 and up to 12 months without a licence. They can also face up to three months in jail.
Tasmania’s Constitution Act only requires MPs to vacate their seat if they’re sentenced to more than 12 months in prison.
