New Law on 'Legal Highs'

Date: 25/08/2010
Posted by: Darragh

NEW LAW ON ‘LEGAL HIGHS' COMES INTO FORCE

Sellers of so-called ‘legal highs' can now face hefty penalties including a jail term as the new law targeting substances which can cause psychoactive effects has come into force.

The increase of ‘Headshops' and the use of mid-altering substances which were not listed as banned drugs has given rise to the need for this law which I have been strongly campaigning for. The commencement of the new regulations will be welcomed by parents across North Dublin and will help to keep our local communities safe from those who seek to profit from endangering the lives of others.

The law is specifically targeted at those who sell or supply substances with the intention of giving someone a psychoactive reaction which can be extremely dangerous. The penalties in place now are heavy and reflect the danger the trade poses to the public, particularly young people. Those convicted can be sent to jail for up to five years.

The terms of the new law means Gardaí in my constituency of Dublin North and around the country can move quickly prevent ‘Headshops' from selling these dangerous products using prohibition orders. Failure to abide by those orders can lead to the premises being closed.

In addition to the legal approach the Government has also mounted an information campaign aimed at young people to educate them of the dangers of ‘legal and illegal highs'. This is part of the multi-agency approach by the Government to the drugs issue which involves backing up our legislation with public information and education campaigns.

The website www.drugs.ie is regularly updated with new information on legal and illegal highs. Young people and their parents or guardians can also get information from the HSE Drugs Helpline - 1800 459 459.