Proposed Legislation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 June 2016

Thursday, 23 June 2016

Questions (223)

Billy Kelleher

Question:

223. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on the publication of the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2016, to amend section 2(2) and other sections of the 1977 Misuse of Drugs Act; when he expects the Bill to be enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17674/16]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2016 was published on Tuesday 21 June. It brings under the scope of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 a number of substances, including certain prescription medicines which are being sold on the streets by drug dealers, and makes a number of technical amendments to the Act.

Yesterday, the Supreme Court up held the constitutionality of Section 2(2) of the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977. Consequently no amendment to that section is now required.