NSW Labor will push for the decriminalisation of cannabis for medical purposes in a move Opposition Leader Luke Foley says will return dignity to the terminally ill.

The push, which would decriminalise the possession of up to 15 grams for treatment of chronic and serious medical conditions, follows the unanimous findings of a parliamentary inquiry into the medical use of cannabis.

“If someone’s pain and suffering can be relieved by medicinal cannabis then I am in favour of its use to that end,” Mr Foley said.

The legislation requires the terminally or chronically ill and their carers to be certified by NSW Health before possessing cannabis.

The current laws make it a criminal penalty to possess cannabis regardless of illness.

But the state already began trials of the uses for medical cannabis earlier this year.

“This is about restoring dignity to those people seeking temporary relief from the pain and suffering of their affliction,” Mr Foley said.

“Seeking respite from relentless and unwavering illness should not be a criminal offence.

It should be met with sympathy and support.”

The legislation would allow for the medical use of cannabis for people with HIV, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, those undergoing chemotherapy and for the management of pain associated with cancer, or any illness or condition declared to be a terminal or serious medical condition.