Now that's hospitality!

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As reported in the Mirror last week, Allan Rock's Ministry of Health jetted 40 experts to Ottawa early this week for a brainstorming session on the effectiveness of cannabis use for medicinal purposes.

In addition to physicians, more than 20 patients who swear by marijuana as an effective method of pain and nausea control were also brought in. All guests stayed at the Travelodge Hotel, and were welcomed with a rather unusual memo from hotel management.

The note, signed by Catering Sales Manager Tamara Lee Collins, recognized the "sensitivity and nature of cannabis" and predictably requested that guests "refrain from smoking this substance in your room as it is not permitted."

Less predictable, however, was the consolation Travelodge management did make to their clients: "We are happy to provide the Rotary Room located on the lower level of the hotel, where this will be accepted and available to you 24 hours a day."

When contacted, Collins said "this policy is in no way a day-to-day one for Travelodge. These were extreme circumstances. Actually, we acted on a request from the Ministry of Health, who assured us all of the people smoking marijuana had legal clearance to do so." : --Matthew Hays

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