Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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217. To ask the Minister for Health his position regarding the use of cannabis for medical purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47522/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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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. 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 Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Regulations which will give effect to this are being finalised and it is anticipated that they will be introduced early next year.