Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Ireland, according to a report published today by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs.
17% or one in five Irish people aged between 15 and 64 have used the drug, with 5% having used it in the last year and 3% having used it in the last month.
The NACD report, which gives an overview of scientific and other information on cannabis, says that the potency of cannabis available in Ireland has increased in recent years.
Research has shown cannabis smoke contains more cancer-causing chemicals than tobacco smoke, leading to bronchitis and a doubling of the risk of certain types of cancer.
Cannabis has been shown to have beneficial outcomes for certain types of pain relief, the treatment of nausea and vomiting and appetite stimulation, and international trials into the medical use of the drug are ongoing.
However, in launching the report, Minister of State with special responsibility for drugs strategy Noel Ahern ruled out the possibility of cannabis being legalised here.
Mr Ahern said there is a clear distinction between the drug being licensed under strict rules for medical purposes, and its legalisation for recreational use. He said one is not a stepping stone towards the other.
