Ireland’s Cannabis Regulation Bill Published

Ireland’s Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013 was published last week by Roscommon TD Luke Ming Flanagan, who says “Ireland is ready for the legalization of cannabis.”

The bill will be debated November 5th and 6th, and if passed, Ireland’s cannabis policy could come to seem a lot like Colorado’s. It would allow home growing of up to six plants, legalize the possession of one ounce, set up regulatory framework for commercial sales and growing and more.

My favorite part of the bill is that it would legalize cannabis clubs of up to 50 members with collective gardens of up to 300 plants. I foresee some very serious breeding/seed-making grower’s clubs cropping up if this bill passes.

Flanagan estimates that the legalization of cannabis will generate Ireland €300,000,000 in revenue and savings. He also stresses that regulating the market makes cannabis less accessible to young people. The very important fact that marijuana is universally available in schools despite prohibition is often overlooked or forgotten by opponents of legalization.

Here’s to hoping Ireland is the next to join to wave of cannabis reform … Sláinte!