Ireland Court Ruling “Legalises” Street Drugs

A recent Court of Appeal ruling in Ireland has caught the nation by surprise, to say the least.

On Tuesday the Court of Appeal overturned a legislative prohibition on the possession of over 120 drugs, including ecstasy, ketamine and crystal meth. The Court deemed the prohibition unconstitutional and the resulting effect is that possession of certain drugs, previously considered harmful, is now legal.

The ruling arose after a claim was made in court that certain amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 to prohibit possession of particular substances were introduced as legislation by orders of Government ministers and had not been voted on by the Irish Parliament. At first glance the Government’s conduct should have caused reason for concern, given Article 15 of the Irish Constitution states only the Irish Parliament has the power to pass laws, but unfortunately, it wasn’t until this judicial ruling was handed down did the Government see the error in their ways.

The ruling, in addition to causing a complete embarrassment for Irish lawmakers, has forced the nation to scramble to pass urgent legislation to remedy the legal loophole.

While it is still illegal to import, export, supply or sell any of these drugs it is currently legal to have the formally prohibited substances on your person. The new legislation to re-enact the prior prohibition is expected to come into effect in the next 24 hours.

If you are looking to avoid a regrettable and embarrassing circumstance, you should consult with an expert law firm such as McLaughlins Lawyers. McLaughlins Lawyers has over 50 years experience, making McLaughlins Lawyers the oldest Gold Coast law firm. Contact our friendly staff to discuss any legal difficulty you may be facing in the areas of litigation, commercial or family law.