Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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1197. To ask the Minister for Health if cannabis is a proven and recognised medicine throughout the world in treating cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's patients; and if the World Health Organisation supports that position [46777/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Cannabis is designated as a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977, the manufacture, production, preparation, sale, supply, distribution and possession of cannabis or cannabis-based medicinal products are unlawful except for the purposes of research. My Department is aware that cannabis for medicinal use has been legalised in some countries and that there have been several studies internationally on the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids for a number of medical issues, including for nausea and vomiting in the advanced stages of illnesses such as cancer and AIDS, for treatment of asthma and glaucoma, as an antidepressant, anticonvulsant and anti-spasmodic. My Department is not aware of the World Health Organisation's position on the matter.

Notwithstanding the Government’s reluctance to loosen the controls on cannabis generally, Department officials have engaged with experts on how authorised cannabis-based medicinal products for patients may be legally prescribed by medical practitioners and used by patients. Draft Regulations are being finalised and it is anticipated that they will be introduced early next year.