Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar has announced that the Government has approved an Order declaring a number of “legal highs” which have been risk assessed at EU level, to be controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Acts.

“These substances are dangerous and pose significant health risks for people who use them” the Minister said. “Four of the substances are so-called “legal highs” and have no legitimate use.  In addition, the level of control under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations which will apply to GHB, a substance used in anaesthesia but which has the potential to be misused, is to be increased.”