Government sets up working group on synthetic cannabinoids

The Ministers for Public Health and Justice have established a joint working group to tackle the availability and use of synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids in Ireland.

The group, chaired by Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, will bring together the Department of Health, Department of Justice, the HSE, An Garda Síochána and other agencies to strengthen enforcement, improve intelligence-sharing and respond quickly to emerging drug risks.

The move follows HSE laboratory findings that high-risk synthetic cannabinoids have been detected in vapes, vape liquids and edible products. Health authorities have warned that these substances can cause severe intoxication, loss of consciousness, psychosis and other serious harms, particularly among young people.

The Ministers also highlighted the classification of HHC as a Schedule 1 controlled drug and said they would review legal measures to allow faster action against emerging substances.

The working group is expected to meet shortly to agree next steps.