Majority of youths back regulation of cannabis

Nearly six out of 10 young people in Ireland believe the sale of cannabis should be regulated, according to a European survey.

A European Commission poll of 28 member states found that 56% of 15-24-year-olds here said the cannabis market should be regulated, with 43% saying it should remain illegal. The position is almost a reverse of the EU average, where 45% said cannabis should be regulated and 53% said it should continue to be banned.

The Flash Eurobarometer found that Ireland and Italy had the joint second highest percentage in favour of regulation, with the Czech Republic way ahead at 71%. In Britain, 46% of young people were in favour.