Former garda chief backs decriminalisation of drug use amid State review

A retired garda boss has said it is time to decriminalise the possession of drugs for personal use.

Former assistant commissioner Jack Nolan also said that a debate should commence on the legalisation of drugs.

In a very rare public comment by a former senior garda on drug decriminalisation, Mr Nolan said that while Ireland’s fundamental legislation — the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 — had many successes, it was “time, now, to look at different options”.