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Over the last several years, Europe has become more open-minded about medical and recreational marijuana. Here are some of the latest cannabis developments from Ireland, the United Kingdom, Germany and Spain.
Ireland: Moving Towards The Decriminalization Of Possession Of Drugs For Personal Use
The Irish Citizen's Assembly of Drug Use published a report last week recommending drug decriminalization.
Paul Reid, the assembly chairman, told the Irish Examiner that the report suggests a "decriminalized" model for individuals caught in possession of drugs for personal use, while the possession will remain illegal under the law. Reid added that the details on how decriminalization would be legally effective are left out to the Oireachtas (the bicameral parliament of Ireland).
The report is scheduled to reach the Oireachtas and the Government, with the former required to establish a committee to review it and provide a detailed response.
"I'd like to see the Oireachtas and the political system take ownership of this now," Reid said.
Before the publication of the report, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he would give "careful consideration" to any recommendations to change the country's drug law.
"I certainly think that shaming people and blaming people and criminalizing people isn't an effective policy and has largely been rejected by the public, particularly younger people," Varadkar said.
I welcome the @CitizAssembly on Drugs report launched today. Greens pushed for this so I'm glad to see it delivered. — Patrick Costello TD (@Costellop) January 25, 2024
Its now up to Government & the Minister to implement these recommendations, especially the non legislative ones which could be progressed in a matter of weeks. pic.twitter.com/7UngJPkirC
See Also: Medical Marijuana Clinic In Ireland Now Open For Eligible Patients