Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Deputy's views but they spoke of the harm to themselves, their loved ones and their mental health. They also felt that no matter what grade cannabis was put in, most people would be looking for more of a high and young people under 18 years would still be targeted. I was surprised myself. When we have a citizens' assembly, and I hope we have it as quickly as possible, all the views, including those of the Deputy, which are also pertinent, will be brought to that. I can never forget my two interventions there, however, which I was quite surprised by because there is a narrative about decriminalising and legalising. We have gone an awfully long way with the national drugs strategy, reducing harm and public support for recovery and a health-led approach. That is the right approach.

The Deputy referred to the work done in Portugal. Portugal's approach, as Dr. Keenan said, is not compatible with the Irish legal system.