Rise in abuse of cannabis, says report

The global regulatory body on drugs has highlighted a sharp rise in the abuse of cannabis and so-called new substances in Ireland.

In its 2012 report, the International Narcotics Control Board said Ireland was a starting point for the trafficking of amphetamine drugs to Australia.

The board fired a broadside across the bows of a growing number of countries proposing the legalisation of the possession of drugs, particularly cannabis. It said any such moves would “violate” international drug laws.