Vol. 426 No. 5
296 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Health if he has any plans to decriminalise cannabis, a suggestion that has been gaining some currency in recent time; if his attention has been drawn to the views of CAD that any such move would be a major set back; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
In addition to Community Action Against Drugs — CAD — other organisations and groups involved in the fight against drug misuse have expressed the view that this drug should not be decriminalised. The National Co-ordinating Committee on Drugs Abuse has recommended that the status of cannabis as a controlled drug should not be changed. I understand that the Garda are also totally opposed to having it decriminalised. I agree with these views. I have no plans to decriminalise the drug under the Misuse of Drugs Acts.
