Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Minister: I keep an eye on cannabis legalisation in other countries (And yes, I've tried it)

Junior health minister Alex White says he does not think full legalisation is on the cards, but that Ireland should “maintain an open mind”.

Video TheJournal.ie / YouTube

Video: Michelle Hennessy/TheJournal.ie

JUNIOR MINISTER ALEX White has said that he does not think Ireland is in a position to fully legalise cannabis but that he keeps “a very close eye” on what’s happening internationally.

The Labour leadership contender was speaking in a wide-ranging interview with TheJournal.ie where he responded to several readers’ questions including one about his position on cannabis legalisation – an area that he has ministerial responsibility for.

White said that while he tracks developments in the US and South America, where some states and countries have legalised the drug, he does not believe that full legalisation is the way to go as those who work in psychiatric and addiction support services believe it would be “a bad idea”.

However, he said that Ireland “should maintain an open mind towards international developments”.

He also said that a lot of the cannabis that is available in Ireland is “an awful lot stronger” than what people would have used in the 70s and 80s when he was a student.

“There’s a lot of really very, very dangerous stuff out on the streets, so the notion of legalising that I would find abhorrent, to be honest with you,” he said.

We also asked the Minister if he smoked cannabis when he was in college. Watch the video above for his answer.

Later today on TheJournal.ie: More from our interview with Alex White where he answers your questions on Labour’s mistakes in government and whether he has been hurt by leadership rival Joan Burton.

Originally published 8.15am

Alex White: Right now, a reasonable person could conclude that Kenny sacked Callinan

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
113 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stuart Davis
    Favourite Stuart Davis
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:36 AM

    The reason that weed is so strong is simple… when alcohol was made illegal in the US they were not making light beer… the illegal producers are not working to government laws and regs hence the higher the alcohol content rhe better.. the same with weed when it is legalised it can be controlled as far a strenght is concerned… and as for international monitoring yes a good idea… and anyone who is against it shoild really look at the damage that alcohol does… 99% of people on hard drugs you will find that the first drug they started on was not weed.. it was alcohol

    452
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Spencer Millard
    Favourite Spencer Millard
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:55 AM

    Very well said. The analogy with alcohol is always a good one because most people are more than happy to partake in drink that has regulated strength and is subject to quality control. The alternative is poitín, which is the alcohol equivalent to the demented hydroponic skunk that has saturated the black market.

    If milder weed was available across the counter, which was subject to the same quality control and strength restrictions as alcohol, everyone would be happy. We don’t even need to go on about the colossal tax benefits of legalisation.

    162
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:53 PM

    Completely wrong. The strength of weed has nothing to do with the legality. Large scale illegal growers have nothing to do with modifying the genetics of the plant. That is up to the international cannabis seed companies that spend a lot of time improving different strains.

    45
    See 8 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Spencer Millard
    Favourite Spencer Millard
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:08 PM

    I think the point being made is that if cannabis was legal, and the strength regulated in the same way as alcohol and sold through legals channels, people would quite happily buy that rather than have to rely on the black market for a cheeky smoke. I for one would be far happier smoking weaker weed i.e. the normal stuff many of us grew up with, if I knew the strength and quality was regulated by law.

    Some people don’t drink spirits because it blows there heads off but, because of regulation and labelling, the strength is easy to ascertain, and so the individual can choose something milder like a pint of Guinness. The same could very easily be applied to cannabis.

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Spencer Millard
    Favourite Spencer Millard
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:11 PM

    * their heads off – no excuse for poor spelling.

    43
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:12 PM

    Stop making a comparison between alcohol and cannabis. Both are completely different. You can smoke all day long, the strongest stuff on the planet and you will be grand. The same can’t be said for alcohol. Drink a single litre of vodka and you might just die.

    My last comment is based on actual knowledge on the subject rather than just guessing.

    115
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Spencer Millard
    Favourite Spencer Millard
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:19 PM

    Well, I would defer to your superior knowledge but you’re being irritating.

    The comparison between alcohol and cannabis is to do with regulation and quality control, not whether you can sit there all day with a pipe stuck in your gob.

    102
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Johnner!
    Favourite Johnner!
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:01 PM

    Al ex…you haven’t a clue what you’re talking about

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:08 PM

    Johnner please explain exactly what I said that was wrong.

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevin Higgins
    Favourite Kevin Higgins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:15 PM

    Both points are valid I look forward to seen you both at #supportdontpunish June 26 across 7 locations in Ireland

    44
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Denise Friary
    Favourite Denise Friary
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 5:14 AM

    I bet he does

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Andrew Cosgrave
    Favourite Andrew Cosgrave
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:34 AM

    Whats this? An honest Irish politician? He answered a tough question directly, quickly and truthfully. Im scared, this is strange. Im off to Australia, cant be having that here

    378
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mike O Neill
    Favourite Mike O Neill
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:27 AM

    You’re easily fooled, he’ll say anything to be head of the party.

    178
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Richard Cynical
    Favourite Richard Cynical
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:32 AM

    totally agree, have we not learned already. they will say anything to gain popularity and then massive U turn when they get what they want

    #stopvotingforthesespeople

    94
    See 5 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Cannabis Freedom
    Favourite Cannabis Freedom
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:49 AM

    Far from honest, here he is spouting pure bullshit about the so called dangers of cannabis during last November’s cannabis regulation debate – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nwwSgiOd04

    166
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ink Toner
    Favourite Ink Toner
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:55 AM

    Bet he went upstairs on the bus also!!!

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paddy Hannigan
    Favourite Paddy Hannigan
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:25 AM

    @cannibas freedom. I remembered that as well. He a two faced little s*it.Although your link is proof that C Smokers have longer memories that politicans might like.

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Karl Mc Garvey
    Favourite Karl Mc Garvey
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:17 PM

    Probably didn’t pay full fare too….

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Carroll
    Favourite Mark Carroll
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 2:02 AM

    So what? Who do we vote for?? Sinn Fein? Because they’re telling us everything we want to hear? The next small party in government will have the same faith as the greens and labour least they weren’t a bunch of thugs like Sinn Fein!!

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Bob Roberts
    Favourite Bob Roberts
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:23 AM

    (posted this on the medical marijuana poll the other day, but was too late, so re-posting here where it might be relevant)

    While everyone worries about what “healthy” people might do if they get their hands on it, those of us that are dying and finding great relief from medical marijuana are really wondering about justice. Do we worry about opiates getting into the wrong hands? Did you receive opiates after your last surgery? Are you posting angry demands on news forums asking to see the medical evidence for Oxycodone?

    I use medical marijuana because it is the _least_ strong thing I can take that works. My neuro-prescribed medication makes me feel about 20X more out of it than marijuana. On marijuana – I can live a normal life: go to work, raise a family, eat food and enjoy being alive. For me, the proof is in the pudding. I experience no negative side effects that I can notice. The prescribed meds make me a zombie and without providing much relief – simple as that.

    I treat marijuana the same as any medication, I have a regular dose delivered at regular intervals (not smoked). The “high” you experience disappears – like the side-effects of any medication you grow used to. Here’s an interesting thought: people who take marijuana irregularly, or for recreation, are merely experiencing the initial side-effects over and over again. And it is that experience which we are basing our laws on. How backwards is this way of thinking? Your granny is not ripped out of her mind, listening to sitar music – she is being freed from the prison of unbearable, unrelenting pain.

    279
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dandy Lyons
    Favourite Dandy Lyons
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:43 AM

    Meanwhile alcohol reeks havoc under the government’s nose….but turn a blind eye for the profit

    206
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute robby rottenest
    Favourite robby rottenest
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:29 AM

    Dandy, a point worn out at this stage but absolutely bang on. Slacker legislation around cannabis and much tighter around alcohol is what’s required. Will it happen? No time soon. Not with the Vintners dreaming of days of old, getting rich while people’s lives crumbled.

    115
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mary Kavanagh
    Favourite Mary Kavanagh
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:38 PM

    Lest we forget, alcohol wreaked hovoc on a certain night in Dail Eireann when a piece of legislation exremely important to the people of Ireland, especially the women, was being debated. And guess who had to pay the bill (in monetary terms at least) for that night of self-indulgence!

    65
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Simon Barnes
    Favourite Simon Barnes
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:18 AM

    “There’s a lot of really very, very dangerous stuff out on the streets,”

    This guy has no idea what he’s talking about. cannabis . very very dangerous. LOL

    202
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute royston T justice
    Favourite royston T justice
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:40 AM

    Somewhere in Ireland a circus is missing it’s clown this morning..

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Denito
    Favourite Denito
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:28 AM

    He’s also missed the point that only by legalising and regulating can the government do anything to make sure that drugs are safe.

    122
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aireach
    Favourite Aireach
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:51 PM

    Safer if you dont take them!

    19
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Séamus Mc Allister
    Favourite Séamus Mc Allister
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:22 AM

    I wonder does he think it would have been right if he had been caught with it when he tried it and criminalised. The law needs changing.

    194
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute logical Thinking
    Favourite logical Thinking
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:30 AM

    Did you ask if he felt like a criminal for smoking?

    51
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Séamus Mc Allister
    Favourite Séamus Mc Allister
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:59 AM

    In a very long winded and inefficient way, yes :)

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anto Curran
    Favourite Anto Curran
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:22 AM

    Sure we would only make a hash of the legislation here and there mould be nothing extra in the pot for the government to spent. It’ll be a joint decision of all parties though

    134
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:46 AM

    Could have added “we’ed” instead of “we would” :-)

    47
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anna Higgins
    Favourite Anna Higgins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:43 AM

    Doesn’t he realise if it was legal.people would have better information about the strentgh of the strain their buying etc.

    126
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Red Ed
    Favourite Red Ed
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:29 AM

    There will always be a black market for cannabis. Cigarettes are legal and there is a huge black market but only because there is massive revenue. Ireland should consider relaxing or legalising the law so that our youth are not being criminalised for possessing small quantities of a natural substance. Regulation will also help us to get cleaner cannabis and increase knowledge on the issue.

    93
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Simon Barnes
    Favourite Simon Barnes
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:44 AM

    difference between cannabis and tobacco, you can grow your own cannabis relatively easy, black market wont thrive under these conditions.

    96
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Malcolm Lackey
    Favourite Malcolm Lackey
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:02 AM

    Alcohol kills on average of 3 people a day on Ireland, cannabis has never killed anyone. Alcohol is the main cause of domestic abuse. Alcohol costs our government tens of millions of euros every year, 70 percent of all hospital admissions are alcohol related. So in my opinion the wrong drug is legal. Alcohol kills more people in ireland than all illegal drugs put together. Not only does it give you a little but it also cures and helps with alot of ailments. Then you have the hemp side of it which can offer alot more to society than just a high, paper, textiles, rope, oil, and loads more things.

    89
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Bridget O'Hanlon
    Favourite Bridget O'Hanlon
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:28 AM

    Malcolm, agree with everything you say except that alcohol is the cause of domestic abuse. Not to be too nitpicky but it doesn’t actually cause abuse although it certainly exacerbates it. this is the result of studies. Counter intuitive isn’t it? And of course calling it ‘domestic’ somehow makes it sound tamer, like a house pet or something. It’s abuse wherever it happens and whoever it happens to. Nothing tame about it.

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Adam Reeves
    Favourite Adam Reeves
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:47 AM

    Possibly the most informed comment I’ve read re: hemp and the like! I’m guessing you’ve listened to joe rogan talk about this?

    6
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevin Higgins
    Favourite Kevin Higgins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:17 PM

    What’s wrong with hemp?

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ferdia McManamon
    Favourite Ferdia McManamon
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:26 AM

    some seriously scary weed out on the streets, so much stronger than when he was in college, i hear stories of groups of marijuana plants loitering on street corners abusing the elderly, starting fights , and drinking alcohol, shocking

    78
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Niall Mullins
    Favourite Niall Mullins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:38 PM

    That’s the worst kind… when you mix it with alcohol. No knowing what it’ll get up to.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian O'Faolain
    Favourite Brian O'Faolain
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:16 AM

    A lot of populist rubbish coming out of this eejit. Last thing we need is another know nothing, shite talking amadan providing soundbites, as a party leader. We need someone who will provide facts and rational suggestions. Yes the weed available is stronger, thats because we were getting very low quality dangerous crap in this country for so long, and new research has debunked the whole psychiatric issues scam. Some people will develop mental problems. The may also smoke cannabis., Doesnt mean they are linked.

    71
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:56 PM

    Great comment! That minister needs to look his shit up. Spouting shite without actually research. Everything he said is based on his own idiotic personal opinion. The weed these days is a million times better than even 4-5 years ago. Super high quality strains that give that temporary brain damage that all stoners strive to get.

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute IrishGravyTrain
    Favourite IrishGravyTrain
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:21 AM

    My mind is opened all right when it comes to the Labour Party.

    62
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:12 AM

    Just thought I’d preemptively deal with the gateway drug argument before it shows up. I’m glad it hasn’t shown up yet – good work people.

    People who start smoking cannabis are probably more likely to move on to other drugs than those who don’t, but this is nothing to do with cannabis itself – it’s because cannabis gives you a gateway into breaking the law. It’s easy enough to buy weed off somebody you don’t know too well – it’s a low-risk (relatively) transaction to both parties and it’s not too expensive, so easy get started.

    When somebody first tries/buys weed they are probably doing 2 illegal things for the first time – trying drugs and buying drugs. It is this interaction with a dealer that eventually allows the buyer to obtain stronger drugs, as they’re introduced to drug deals and their nuances in a low-risk manner. The gateway aspect relates to a gateway into doing something illegal, not the health/safety risk of drugs; this gateway is eliminated if cannabis is legal – somebody who wants to try a stronger drug has to make both the step to a stronger drug and the step into illegality together.

    Alcohol is a greater gateway to stronger drugs anyway in my opinion, as amphetamines and cocaine are said to work better with it. Cannabis is not just weaker than these drugs – it’s a very different type of drug. If you wander into a smoking area of a night club and approach a bunch of drunk (or even tipsy) people in their mid 20s and offer them a bit of the above mentioned drugs, dutch courage will take over and they will probably be mad for a bit. Will be an order of magnitude less likely if you try this with a bunch of “stoners”. I don’t have the stats but I imagine a lot of drug related deaths occur while people are drunk and aren’t as aware of how much they’ve taken and how hydrated they are. As I said I don’t have stats but from what I’ve seen I think it’s likely.

    60
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute sol
    Favourite sol
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:56 PM

    Hash more dangerous than a bottle of whiskey. I don’t think so.they sound like the pro gun lobby In the states. Go down the town and look at the people sprawled out on the street due to drink and alcoholism. This traditional thinking has done us no favours. I lived in Holland for four years and not once as far as I can remember saw a fight on the street. The coffee shops had three requests on their doors. They were over 18. No hard drugs allowed and no violence. What have we here. Underage drinking. Dealers selling weed and extacy etc and plenty of violence as a result.what’s our answer. More police and stiffer sentences. Aghhh. The mind boggles at the logic behind their argument.

    58
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Daniel R
    Favourite Daniel R
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:11 AM

    Fair play to him but fück this guy and the whole backward society. I’ll keep enjoying the benefits of weed. An open mind, better sleep, clearer skin.
    Alcohol on nights out, I’m not against it.
    If everyone would just think for themselves.

    57
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:15 AM

    I know somebody who achieved a 2.1 physics degree smoking every night, while also having to work to get through the degree. He also has a half marathon time of 1:23.

    He laughs when people tell him what weed does to his body and brain.

    80
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Daniel R
    Favourite Daniel R
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:56 AM

    And if he smoked during the day too he could’ve cut at least 5 seconds off that time ha
    I’m sick of defending my cannabis use to close minded people. They’re missing out. Everyone free to do what they want.

    65
    See 3 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:13 AM

    Indeed, as long as they’re not hurting others, which is something cannabis doesn’t do much of. Alcohol problems boil over onto other people – some of the worst nights out I’ve ever had with my good friends occurred when one of them got too drunk and either drew trouble on us or just became hassle to take care of. People smoking weed are unlikely to bother other people – in fact I’d argue they’re friendlier while stoned.

    It’s easier to “snap out” of begin stoned too. You can spend the entire day smoking and if something serious happens or you need your wits all of a sudden for some reason you can bring yourself back to normality in a matter of minutes, once you’ve a little experience. When you’re absolutely rat-arsed drunk you’re just stuck with it until it runs its course. There are times when you sober up fast but that often requires tears, spilling your guts out to your friends and telling everyone you’re sorry – nowhere near as graceful a transition.

    While stoned, the mind can operate in a slightly skewed manner. Ideas you get while drunk tend to go nowhere – maybe jumping from a trolley into a ditch at best. Ideas you get while stoned are often ideas and thoughts the brain wasn’t likely to come across naturally. A guy I know can approach programming or mathematical problems from a different perspective while slightly stoned – this is harmless, interesting and mentally invigorating, and the insight gained is still there later on. Weed has an “enlightening” effect on the brain – I think this is good for a person’s well being.

    As for the risk, if there is any, why is ok for a F1 driver or a skydiver to use “the rush” as a rationale for doing something risky, while a casual drug user is being careless?

    67
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Niall Mullins
    Favourite Niall Mullins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:41 PM

    I bet everyone looks at you like you have two heads when you speak rationally like that Daniel;)

    27
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute simon shewster
    Favourite simon shewster
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 6:28 AM

    Politician admits to trying cannabis in 2014, Only in backward Ireland would this be considered newsworthy. Who really gives a damn. Personally I don’t smoke because any smoking anything is bad for your lungs imo. I feel sorry for people who are ignorant about cannabis and label people that smoke it as wasters while looking down their self righteous nose.The same people probably go to mass every sunday chanting hosana in the highest to a bearded man in a white tunic who lives in the sky. Go figure.

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Martin Ryan
    Favourite Martin Ryan
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:29 AM

    I think Alex White, has tried more than cannabis,maybe he tried Lucy in the sky with diamonds, and he’s not back yet?

    54
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute HomoHabilis1980
    Favourite HomoHabilis1980
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:01 AM

    Not all cannabis is the same it’s the very same as alcohol in terms of brands for different effects
    You’re not going to drink vodka every night but you might take a glass of wine or a bottle of beer.

    50
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thierry Rat
    Favourite Thierry Rat
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:39 AM

    Cannabis promotes liberal and free thinking,we couldn’t have that

    47
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute johngahan
    Favourite johngahan
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:47 AM

    Smells herby; kind of like he is trying to appease a demographic.

    Still I wouldn’t be against this. ‘Decent folk’ should be allowed enjoy a spliff, and I’d be happier to meet a stoned knacker bumbling along the street than one on a cocktail of amphetamines trying to find EUR50 for their next hit from whoever they can rob it off.

    Seems the US experience so far of building a herb industry hasn’t gone too badly.

    Problem in Ireland is, like alcholol, we can’t enjoy it responsibly and everyone will be binge bonging. There’d be a run on mars bars and the ‘sure it’ll be grand’ work quality ethic will sink to near comatose levels of spladashery.

    44
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick
    Favourite Patrick
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:47 AM

    The clueless nature of these politicians astounds me.

    42
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Kelly
    Favourite John Kelly
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 8:22 AM

    Dope!!

    38
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gzeit
    Favourite Gzeit
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:40 AM

    Under the direct democracy system 100,000 signatures would trigger a referendum on the legalization of cannabis. I know who I’ll be voting for next time round

    36
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thierry Rat
    Favourite Thierry Rat
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:07 PM

    They should at least start by legalising it for people in severe pain, I think they deserve the choice

    28
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute OU812
    Favourite OU812
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:12 AM

    Legalisation in Colorado earlier this year. Tax take is $5.3m per month. Crime stats are (very mostly) down a huge amount http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/720/documents/statistics/2014/UCR_Citywide_Reported%20_Offenses_2014.pdf

    26
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Emily Elephant
    Favourite Emily Elephant
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:21 AM

    I hear this line about “it’s an awful lot stronger than the stuff back in the day” a lot. Does anyone have any hard data on this? And if so, what exactly is supposed to be more dangerous about it?

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Cannabis Freedom
    Favourite Cannabis Freedom
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:06 AM

    The whole issue around potency is a red herring, the more potent the cannabis, the less you use. Cannabis oil is the most concentrated form of cannabis there is, you only use a tiny bit of it, dabbing the oil onto a titanium nail where it’s instantly evaporated, although much more potent, this method is now being viewed as being an overall healthier option as you’re not actually smoking any plant matter.

    40
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute art vandelay
    Favourite art vandelay
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:01 PM

    Can i pick your mind on Vaporisers? I want to stop smoking cigarettes but obviously am not going to stop smoking weed. Iolite any good?

    23
    See 8 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute iluvkief
    Favourite iluvkief
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:25 PM

    Art, read an article about a fella who gave up tobacco by reducing the tobacco and increasing the weed in his spliffs. it took him 3 weeks.

    19
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Cannabis Freedom
    Favourite Cannabis Freedom
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:00 PM

    Hi Art, vaping is great, it takes a small bit of time to get used to it, but it’s so much cleaner and less damaging on your lungs, especially if you’re currently mixing with tobacco. Personally I like to both vape & smoke (but I never use tobacco). I have an iolite, but it started giving trouble, so have stopped using it and now use two different types, both of which I’d highly recommend:

    Extreme Q for home use – http://www.medicaljane.com/review/arizer-extreme-q-vaporizer-review/

    Da Vinci Ascent for portable use – http://www.thecannabist.co/2014/02/18/ascent-da-vinci-portable-vaporizer-glass-digital-vapes-review/4869/

    Both vapes are avaialble online, but if you wish to buy instore, High Rollers on Capel St. sell both.

    If looking to quit tobacco, I’d also recommend getting a bong or pipe, so that you can still enjoy a smoke, but without the mixing and before long you’ll be wondering why you ever used tobacco in the first place. The nicest thing I found about quitting tobacco, is that it also removes the neediness for a joint, without the nicotine there’s no craving.

    25
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute art vandelay
    Favourite art vandelay
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:38 PM

    Thanks Cannabis, I will have a look at those links after work. I must have given up the cigarettes 4 or 5 times in the last 20 years. I was still smoking joints though, so obviously was still taking in nicotine so I eventually would be back smoking cigarettes after 6-12 months. Yes Kief, My only worry is if I’m only making joints with weed is how much am I going to go through!? I’m currently spending 50-100 euro a week on weed, but on the other hand I will be saving 350 euro a month if I stop smoking cigarettes I suppose. I know what you mean about the “neediness” of having a joint as herself doesn’t smoke cigarettes, so 5 mins after we have a smoke she is like “skin up!” whereas I just have a cigarette..

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Cannabis Freedom
    Favourite Cannabis Freedom
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 3:01 PM

    If looking to quit tobacco, I’d also encourage you to either read or listen to the audio book ‘Easy Way To Stop Smoking’ by Alan Carr, he clearly explains how the nicotine trap works and teaches an easy, yet effective approach to getting around it. Knowing your enemy is half the battle and if you use his method, you might be surprised at how easy it is to stop. Good luck!!

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute art vandelay
    Favourite art vandelay
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 3:25 PM

    I know his book only too well! Each time I quit I read his book, surprisingly it worked each time(very monotonous reading it once never mind 4 times!)now I’m reading it again for the 5th and final time!

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian McCarthy
    Favourite Brian McCarthy
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:59 PM

    The Arizer solo is pretty good

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Cannabis Freedom
    Favourite Cannabis Freedom
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 6:34 PM

    Yes, the Arizer Solo is also defintely worth looking at, in fact if I hadn’t already got the Extreme Q as a home vaporizer, I would’ve probably gone with the Arizer Solo, as it can be used as both a home & portable vape (I just didn’t think it was as portable as the new Da Vinci).

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Luke
    Favourite Luke
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 1:04 PM

    thank you CF

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Q Citizen
    Favourite John Q Citizen
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:04 PM

    Big surprise professionals who work in psychiatric health care think it would be “a bad idea” hmmm

    Surely not because they are in the business of drugging people up to the eyeballs and don’t need the competition???

    I have been smoking pot for years and years now. Yes I may be schizophrenic but at least I have each other

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute just readin
    Favourite just readin
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:11 PM

    I take a spiritual view on this, God created the world and everything in it, for a Government to make Grass illegal is to say that God was wrong, and that is an offence to my religion , bordering on blasphemy….

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute SSDP Ireland
    Favourite SSDP Ireland
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:54 AM

    Time to legalise this plant. Join the #SSDP revolution. We are training the next generation of drug policy reformers in our Universities and have 8 events coming up right across the country next week

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Bobby James
    Favourite Bobby James
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:01 AM

    Fair f*cking play to him for having the balls to say he had a few tokes in college.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevin Higgins
    Favourite Kevin Higgins
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 5:19 PM

    Did he have the balls to get himself a criminal record?

    I understand this is a positive move but it’s also very hypocritical given many Irish citizens have had their lives ruined by criminal records

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paddy Hannigan
    Favourite Paddy Hannigan
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 6:29 PM

    @kevin. Will the law be calling to his house tonight to try and pressure into telling them who supplied him.Threathen him with a criminal as they would do with a lot of teenagers?

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Circle
    Favourite Paul Circle
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:41 PM

    This is the guy who gave free GP care to the children of millionaires, bankers, bondholders, politicians and ex politicians ! i.e. the really wealthy in society.

    This is the guy who took medical cards off children suffering from Down’s Syndrome, Cancer Sufferers and so on.

    This is the guy who wants to increase the cost of a can of the cheapest beer so that the ordinary hard pressed citizens of this country will have to pay even MORE TAX for the only luxury some of us have.

    Go away White you are a disgrace and an embarrassment and should be in Fine Gael.

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michelle Rogers
    Favourite Michelle Rogers
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:30 PM

    One thing is for sure… being illegal teenagers who are experimenting are easily able to get hold of the very strong variety, which is very worrying for the effects on their growing brain. The other thing that it is a grave mistake to be criminalising so many young people who are likely experimenting and would not in any other way find themselves on the wrong side of the law. It seems that young people are routinely stopped and searched by Gardai for no real reason other than on the off chance they may have a joint on them. I would venture to say that, while we must not tolerate the use of what can be a dangerous substance for growing brains, this is likely to be counter-productive in its effects. Education on the bad effects would be a better way to go.

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:00 PM

    Teenagers can already get weed easily any time of the day with no ID check. OBVIOUSLY if it was regulated it would be treated the same as alcohol. ID etc

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michelle Rogers
    Favourite Michelle Rogers
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 10:16 AM

    I agree Al. I am not against recreational smoking at all, but sometimes teenagers do not have the emotional maturity to regulate their smoking and can get a bit dependent – since, like any substance that has an effect on the brain (I include coffee, alcohol and other stuff here too) there can be a self-medicating element when it comes to dealing with teenage anxieties… the result can be dropping out of school and lying on the bed all day and generally being demotivated about life…

    There just needs to be a more understanding attitude and realistic education about it (for example in the states there are programmes in some schools where students are encouraged to look at their use of cannabis in a very real way and decide for themselves whether they might like to change it – they find that just telling people to stop something does not work, funnily enough!)…

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thors Big Hammer
    Favourite Thors Big Hammer
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:10 AM

    Alex white trying to play cool. Nothing cool about drugs Alex. Drugs destroy people.

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 12:56 PM

    “Drugs destroy people.”

    Not cannabis though. The proportion of users it does destroy is probably no more or less than the proportion of non-users destroyed from something else.

    Anyone whose life is destroyed by cannabis was likely to destroy their life by whatever they did – maybe better they were in the attic smoking a bong than out in town after a bottle of vodka – where they might destroy more lives.

    “Alex white trying to play cool.”

    According to Thors Big Hammer.

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thors Big Hammer
    Favourite Thors Big Hammer
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 8:42 AM

    Ahhhhh will you frickin cop on you junkie Cannibis is a drug get help

    1
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 9:31 AM

    Why would I need help? I spend my day designing software for cars and I’m in great shape – what would standing against cannabis do for me?

    You seem to think you’re a hammer – think you’ve been sucking fumes out of your car exhaust or something.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute michaelhenry
    Favourite michaelhenry
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:28 AM

    Ming wins a MEP seat and now all Ministers are going to say they smoked weed-we already know they are enough of a dope head-

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 1:00 PM

    It’s sunny today. It’s Tuesday today.

    Conclusion – it’s always sunny on Tuesdays.

    If you actually think that other ministers are going to come out in favour of weed because Ming won a European seat, if that’s the actual trail of logic your head is putting together, I think it would be fair to say you’re thick. Sorry for putting it bluntly, but there’s not much else to it.

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute iluvkief
    Favourite iluvkief
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:23 PM

    your right paul politicians never say what they think people want to hear. If you look at the speech that alex white made in the dail(cannabis freedom has provided a link on his first post)last november you’ll see his position has changed a lot. so why do you think he changed his position?

    3
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 9:27 AM

    Why did a human change their mind on a topic?

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute whynotme
    Favourite whynotme
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:39 AM

    He ain’t no Clinton

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michael Lynch
    Favourite Michael Lynch
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:38 PM

    He’ll bloody well do what Enda tells him.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Derek O'Connell
    Favourite Derek O'Connell
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:06 PM

    This guy will say anything for a vote

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Joe Bergin
    Favourite Joe Bergin
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:10 PM

    It is a good sign that this loser came out for legalization. As other less desperate pols see how much attention this gets him they will get on board rather than give their opponents an advantage. Slow start but a start……

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank
    Favourite Frank
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:17 AM

    Cannabis in his day was more than likely a harmless bit of soap bar hash and is nothing compared to the powerful chemical induced “skunk weed” that is our streets to day

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jay Christo
    Favourite Jay Christo
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:30 AM

    Chemical induced, do go on?

    33
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:38 AM

    Do explain Frank. Can I assume you’re the same Frank who was singing the praises of natural remedies yesterday.

    “I just disagress with what I sees”

    23
    See 6 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute David Keating
    Favourite David Keating
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 10:43 AM

    powerful chemical induced skunk weed ? are you the frank from that website called talk to frank ?

    20
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank
    Favourite Frank
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:06 AM

    This is what I am on about….

    http://www.growchat.com/seeds-images/nutrients.png

    And yes I have smoked weed in the past….naturally home grown without artificial light and force fed with toxic chemicals.

    There is no regulation to what’s is in these chemicals.

    Monsanto are at it now……http://www.naturalcuresnotmedicine.com/2014/05/monsanto-plans-patent-genetically-modified-marijuana-brand-uruguay.html

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank
    Favourite Frank
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:18 AM

    Paul Minogue The weed of today is not natural….Competitions are held annually to develop new and more powerful strains..

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Minogue
    Favourite Paul Minogue
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 11:24 AM

    “The weed of today is not natural”

    Stupid comment. I grow weed naturally you say it doesn’t exist?

    “There is no regulation to what’s is in these chemicals.”

    An advantage of legalisation will be traceability and accountability in the growing process, potentially.

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Ex
    Favourite Al Ex
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 2:09 PM

    The fact that you called it “skunk” means that everything you say is invalid

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute iluvkief
    Favourite iluvkief
    Report
    Jun 17th 2014, 9:38 PM

    never heard of a competition to develop new and more powerful strains, the are competitions to for weed but there for great grown quality weed,Just because it’s the strongest doesn’t mean it’s going to win.

    I would love to breed my own strain of weed, have watched some great breeding on autoflower.net

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Luke
    Favourite Luke
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 12:27 PM

    I think they should completely legalize it for recreational and medicinal use but it doesn’t really matter to me because i’m going to use to regardless of the backwards law of this country .I would rather the € I spend on it to goes into the legitimate economy but sure that’s the governments choice/decision to keep this miracle plant outlawed pouring hundreds of millions of euro in cash into criminal’s hands. The reason why they’re criminals is simple. You have to be a criminal to sell it.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Diarmuid
    Favourite Diarmuid
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 1:21 AM

    This country does not need more potheads.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute WillLynch
    Favourite WillLynch
    Report
    Jun 19th 2014, 12:13 PM

    When Ming topped the European Elections, I predicted that a lot more Irish politicians would now admit to smoking cannabis and advocate it’s decriminalisation, as doing so is now a vote winner.

    This is to be welcomed. The scientific evidence is overwhelming. There is no intellectual or moral case for supporting prohibition.

    Indeed there is a moral case to end prohibition, as to support prohibition is to be complicit in gang warfare, murder and mayhem. From Limerick to Mexico, there are countless bullet ridden bodies of young men which demand the end of this fool’s crusade, the global war on drugs.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michael Farrelly
    Favourite Michael Farrelly
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 2:33 PM

    What a waffler Alex White is.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute gary banner
    Favourite gary banner
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 12:17 AM

    I don’t know what stoners are worried ..Alex the snake will do all he can to legalise this crap … It fits in with labours liberal agenda….. But rest assure he will not taking it …and he’ll legalise it so other peoples kids will can destroy themselves on it ……

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Emer Branigan
    Favourite Emer Branigan
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 1:54 PM

    Legalise it and regulate it so it won’t be mind bendingly strong then!

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dermot O'Reilly
    Favourite Dermot O'Reilly
    Report
    Jun 18th 2014, 5:00 PM

    Alex.

    Shame on you!

    1
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
JournalTv
Video Player is loading.
Current Time 0:00
Duration 0:00
Loaded: 0%
Stream Type LIVE
Remaining Time 0:00
 
1x
    • descriptions off, selected
    • captions off, selected
      Next upNext up:
      News in 60 seconds