Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

95. To ask the Minister for Health the status of, and definitive start date for, the medicinal cannabis access programme in view of his most recent response with regard to two cannabis based products having been approved for the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48736/19]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, legislation was signed in June which will allow for the operation of the Medical Cannabis Access Programme (MCAP) on a pilot basis for five years.

Commercial medical cannabis suppliers whose cannabis products meet the specified requirements set out in the legislation, and which have been listed in Schedule 1 of the Misuse of Drugs (Prescription and Control of Supply of Cannabis for Medical Use) Regulations, will be able to supply these products into Ireland.

Cannabis products will only be listed in the Schedule once they have been accepted as being suitable for medical use under the Medical Cannabis Access Programme.

As yet no medical cannabis products are available for use under the MCAP but a number of suppliers have expressed an interest in supplying the Irish market. As soon as suitable products are approved for use the Department of Health will make this information available on their website.

Please see the link to all of the up to date information relating to the Medical Cannabis Access Programme, which includes a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document. Please note the FAQ is a working document and will be updated as new information and developments emerge.