Belfast’s first openly gay mayor, Micky Murray, has voiced strong support for the legalization of marijuana, particularly for medicinal purposes, during a recent interview. Murray emphasized that cannabis is less harmful than many assume and criticized the slow pace of reform in Northern Ireland, stating, “It’s 2025, and we’re still having the conversation.” Pointing to successful models abroad where legalization has led to better regulation and increased government revenue, he urged for the introduction of safe injection facilities and a more compassionate approach to drug policy in Belfast.