Mmj is finally legal in Ireland

After significant delays, the Irish Department of Health announced the direct distribution of cannabis to Irish MMJ patients in December 2020, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s medical cannabis landscape. This measure, an expansion of the 2019 rule, addresses the challenges posed by the global pandemic, which restricted patient travel.

In April 2020, recognizing the limitations on travel, the Irish Government permitted the delivery of cannabis from the Netherlands to Ireland. This delivery system, established during the pandemic, has since become a permanent fixture.

Patients seeking access to medical cannabis must apply for licenses through the Department of Health. However, the failure to integrate the licensing system with the Medical Cannabis Access Programme has led to confusion.

Critics argue that a two-tier system exists, comprising individual licensing and the Access Programme.

Consultants often encounter patients expecting to apply through the Access Programme, only to discover they cannot prescribe anything and must turn them away.

Many MMJ patients are unaware of their eligibility for an individual license. Despite the Access Programme’s inclusion in the HSE Service Plan, there are no current plans for full MMJ legalization.

Notably, pharmacists remain unable to dispense cannabis to licensed patients, necessitating reliance on the existing delivery system.

Presently, the Health Products Regulatory Authority has approved only a select few cannabis products, including Aurora High CBD Drops, CannEpil, and Tilray Oral Solution.

Could Ireland grow its own?

Addressing one of the key hurdles, Health Minister Harris acknowledged the possibility of Ireland cultivating its own cannabis if the current scheme proves successful.

Dr. James Linden from GreenLight Pharmaceuticals expressed confidence in Ireland’s potential as a prime location for cannabis cultivation, citing the country’s favorable climate compared to the Netherlands.

Linden highlighted Ireland’s temperate climate, which alleviates concerns about excessive summer heat, unlike in the Netherlands where cannabis is primarily grown indoors under artificial lights.

He identified regions such as Donegal, Derry, Carlow, and Longford as suitable locations for cannabis farms.

However, he emphasized the need for expansive growth areas to meet future demand, estimating the setup cost of a facility at around €15 million.

Significant opposition persists

While recent legislative developments are promising, full medical cannabis legalization in Ireland remains distant. A study by Smyth et al., published in the Irish Medical Journal in October 2019, identified concerns, particularly regarding adolescent cannabis use.

The study highlighted cannabis as the leading cause of ‘disability’ among older teenagers among illicit drugs. It also emphasized the elevated risk of dependence among those initiating cannabis use at a young age.

Analyzing data from national treatment databases and population surveys focusing on individuals aged 33 and under, the research noted a 200% increase in weed-related hospital admissions from 2005 to 2017.

These findings underscore the complexities surrounding medical weed legalization in Ireland.

Using cannabis to stimulate your appetite

Final thoughts on medical cannabis in Ireland

The journey towards medical weed legalization in Ireland has been arduous and lengthy. Despite years of advocacy, a glimmer of hope now emerges on the horizon.

While a medical cannabis program exists, it caters to only a fraction of the population, yet it is poised to draw considerable interest. Its success could herald unforeseen possibilities for the future.

However, the program remains a five-year trial, casting doubt on significant legislative advancements within that timeframe. Nevertheless, the prospect of Ireland cultivating its weed presents intriguing possibilities.

The allure of additional tax revenue and access to a global market may prove irresistible to the Irish government.

Yet, any further strides toward legalization will undoubtedly encounter staunch opposition, highlighting concerns over the impact on younger users.

As the debate continues, Ireland navigates a complex path towards embracing medical cannabis.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.