Is It Legal to Buy and Grow Cannabis in Ireland?

Ireland is a country with some of the strictest cannabis laws in Europe. The distinction between medical and recreational cannabis, as well as industrial hemp and CBD products, plays a crucial role in legal regulation. This article aims to clarify the current situation to understand what is permitted and what is prohibited. Legislation is regularly reviewed, making it essential to stay informed about the latest changes and adhere to local regulations.

Is Buying Cannabis Seeds Legal in Ireland?

Purchasing cannabis seeds in Ireland stays in a legal gray area. The seeds are not classified as a controlled substance, and their sale is permitted in specialized shops and online. You can also lawfully obtain them through mail from foreign countries. However, buying them for further growing of cannabis is illegal in Ireland.

Is Growing Cannabis Legal in Ireland?

Cultivating your own marijuana plants is against the law in Ireland. This is due to Irish law classifying cannabis as a Class B controlled substance. Additionally, equipment used for growing cannabis is also banned, as stipulated by the Psychoactive Substances Act.

If you are discovered cultivating cannabis, you could face a penalty fine of up to €2,500, a maximum imprisonment of 12 months, or potentially both, depending on the court's judgment. If convicted of cannabis cultivation, you could face even harsher fines and a prison term of up to 14 years.

Industrial Hemp

Industrial hemp is one of the few legal forms of cannabis in Ireland. However, its cultivation is governed by strict regulations, and farmers are required to obtain a special license from the Department of Health. The THC content in the plants must not exceed 0.2%, and only hemp seed types authorized by the European Commission are permitted for cultivation.

Can You Buy and Use Cannabis in Ireland?

Ireland's stance on cannabis is established through various legislative measures, including the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1977 and its subsequent amendments. As we mentioned above, under this law, cannabis is categorized as a Class B controlled substance, making its possession, use, and sale criminal offenses. The only exception to this rule is found in the medical cannabis program that was initiated in 2019.

According to the law, possessing even a small amount of cannabis for personal use can result in fines or criminal charges. For instance, a first offense involving the possession of a small quantity may lead to a fine, while repeated offenses could result in imprisonment for up to one year. The law strictly prohibits the cultivation of cannabis for any purpose without the appropriate license from the Department of Health.

Medical Cannabis

The medical use of cannabis has been legalized in Ireland, but only under very specific circumstances. The regulations established in 1998 under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 (with amendments) classify cannabis, cannabis resin, cannabinol, and its derivatives as Schedule 1 substances. For these substances, possession and use are illegal for any reason, including medicinal, unless one obtains a license from the Minister for Health, which is very difficult to acquire. To gain access to cannabis-based medications, patients must be referred by their treating physician, and the drugs are dispensed only with the approval of the Department of Health.

On June 26, 2019, the Health Minister endorsed a law permitting the Medical Cannabis Access Programme to operate on a trial basis for a duration of five years. This Programme enables access to cannabis-derived products for medical purposes in accordance with the law and the clinical guidelines established for the initiative.

Medical Cannabis Seeds

VIEW ALL

Cannabis-Infused Products

The use of cannabis-infused edibles, such as jelly sweets, chocolates, cookies, and confectionery, is a relatively new trend in Ireland. However, any products with a THC content exceeding 0.2% are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977/1984, and their possession and use are illegal.

As for CBD-infused products, their regulation is less stringent. Such products containing less than 0.2% THC are considered legal in Ireland, as they do not produce psychoactive effects. These products are regulated by European Union standards. Products containing CBD, such as oils, capsules, creams, and gummies, can be found and bought in pharmacies, health food stores, and online.

High-CBD Cannabis Seeds

VIEW ALL

Attitudes to Cannabis

Public opinion regarding the use of cannabis in Ireland has been shifting in recent years. While the Irish government's official stance remains conservative, an increasing number of citizens are advocating for change. A 2021 study revealed that over half of the Irish population supports the decriminalization of cannabis for personal use. This trend mirrors a broader movement across Europe, where countries like Germany and Malta have been taking steps toward legalization.

Opponents of cannabis reform often cite health risks, addiction, and potential social consequences. However, proponents argue that decriminalization could alleviate the burden on the judicial system and allow law enforcement to focus on more serious crimes.

Will Cannabis Be Legalized in the Future?

The issue of cannabis legalization in Ireland remains unresolved. While no significant changes in legislation are anticipated in the near future, gradual reforms may pave the way for legalization. Political support for legalization is slowly but steadily increasing.

Some politicians and activist groups advocate for a more progressive approach, citing examples from countries like Canada and the United States. For instance, as of 2023, two political groups (Labour and People Before Profit), along with a number of independent TDs, have shown their backing for the legalization of cannabis in Ireland. Meanwhile, some other parties have advocated for the decriminalization of cannabis.

However, the government is not yet prepared for substantial reforms, and public discourse is still in the exploratory phase. Future changes are likely to depend on continued public support.

Where to Order Cannabis Seeds if You Live in Ireland

As the sale of seeds in Ireland is legal, numerous seed shops, both local and international, cater to Irish customers, providing discreet shipping and various payment options. At Herbies, we aim to ensure you don't face any issues when ordering premium seeds – although the chances of that happening are quite slim. Nevertheless, to be cautious, we carefully package and conceal your items to make them look like they come from a standard online store. Visit our Shipping page for more information on our discreet delivery options for your preferred strains.

However, if you are considering the purchase of cannabis seeds, it is crucial to be aware of the legal risks associated with their cultivation. Popular seed shops that offer delivery to Ireland are located in countries with more lenient laws, such as the Netherlands and Spain.

It is important to note that seeds are typically sold "for souvenir purposes only," highlighting their legal status in Ireland. Buyers should exercise caution and stay informed about the law to avoid potential legal issues.

Disclaimer: Please note that cannabis cultivation, even of non-psychoactive strains, is illegal in the Republic of Ireland. Before purchasing and growing cannabis seeds, ensure that cannabis cultivation is legal in your region.

Wrap-Up

The cannabis situation in Ireland is intricate and reflects a nation that is navigating the line between tradition and modernity. While recreational use remains illegal, discussions surrounding decriminalization and regulation are gaining momentum. Public opinion is shifting, and the medical cannabis program is paving the way for potential policy changes. Currently, those interested in cannabis must navigate a strict legal framework, whether it involves using medical marijuana products, buying CBD items, or purchasing seeds.

Herbies Head Shop expressly refuses to support the use, production, or supply of illegal substances. For more details read our Legal Disclaimer.