Public support softer laws on drug use

All but one of 87 submissions from the public to an Oireachtas review of drug laws favour decriminalising or softening sanctions for possession.

Minister of state Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

The Oireachtas Justice Committee is set to urge the Government to “seriously consider” a Portuguese-type decriminalisation model for possession of drugs for personal use.

The news comes amid claims that a document prepared by a top UN expert, recommending all governments consider the decriminalisation of drugs for personal use, was withdrawn after pressure from at least one country.