Independent TD Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan today launched his Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013, which would legalise cannabis use and allow for the cultivation of plants for both personal and commercial purposes.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the TD, who has been a strong advocate of legalisation, said it is “an exciting time for anyone involved in attempting to repeal prohibition in relation to cannabis anywhere in world”.

“This bill comes at a time when legalisation of cannabis is being looked at in new light all around the planet,” he said referring developments in America in recent years that have seen a number of states legalising the drug.