Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 158: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will reconsider her decision not to allow cannabis- based drugs to be used for the medical treatment of multiple sclerosis sufferers and other patients; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that such drugs are legally prescribed in other countries; if her further attention has been drawn to the fact that Irish citizens must live abroad to receive such medication; if she is satisfied that their rights as Irish citizens are protected; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42398/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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Cannabis and cannabis based medicinal products are Schedule 1 controlled substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. They are considered as having no medicinal use and their manufacture, production, preparation, sale, supply, distribution and possession is unlawful except for the purposes of research.

I am aware that claims have been made in respect of the possible health benefits of cannabis based medicinal products for patients suffering from certain conditions. I am also aware that cannabis based medicinal products may be legally prescribed in other countries.

As cannabis is the drug which is most abused in Ireland, I am reluctant to loosen the controls on its use. However, my Department is currently seeking expert advice on whether or not there is a need, from a clinical perspective, to amend the Misuse of Drugs legislation to allow for the use of cannabis based medicinal products.