merrion street

The Minister for Primary Care, including responsibility for the drugs strategy, Róisín Shortall T.D., announced today (Tuesday, 4th October, 2011) that the Government has given approval to notify the EU of its intention to make an Order declaring a further range of "legal highs" to be controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Acts.

In May 2010, approximately 200 substances were placed under the control of under the Misuse of Drugs Acts. In August 2010 the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010 made it a criminal offence to sell substances which have psychoactive effects. Due to these concerted legislative actions, there has been a significant reduction in the number of headshops operating throughout the country, from over 100 to approximately 10.

"These new substances are dangerous and pose significant health risks for people who use them" the Minister said. "Following the EU notification period, the Government will bring under control approximately another 60 substances, some of which have been designed specifically so as not to fall outside the Misuse of Drugs Act controls" she added.