Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
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Question 193: To ask the Minister for Health his position on the designation of cannabis within the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5844/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Cannabis is designated as a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 which means that the manufacture, production, preparation, sale, supply, distribution and possession of cannabis and cannabis-based medicinal products is unlawful in Ireland except for the purposes of research. Cannabis misuse is detrimental to health, and significant physical and mental health risks are particularly associated with long-term use. The Government is satisfied that the existing controls associated with cannabis are appropriate.

As the law currently stands, it is not possible for cannabis-based medicinal products to be prescribed by a medical practitioner in Ireland. I am aware that claims have been made in respect of the possible health benefits of cannabis-based medicinal products for patients suffering from certain conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. I am also aware that cannabis-based medicinal products may be legally prescribed in other countries. Accordingly, my Department is examining the issues associated with applying controls, similar to those that apply to other controlled drugs that can be misused, such as morphine and methadone, to cannabis-based medicinal products to permit them to be prescribed and dispensed in Ireland.