The classification of drugs and precursors in Ireland is made in accordance with the three United Nations conventions of 1961, 1971, and 1988. Irish legislation defines the importation, manufacture, trade in and possession, other than by prescription, of most psychoactive substances as criminal offences. The principal criminal legislative framework is laid out in the MDAs 1977 and 1984, and the Misuse of Drugs Regulations, 1988. The offences of drug possession (MDA, 1977 Section 3) and possession for the purpose of supply (MDA, 1977 Section 15) are the principal forms of criminal charge used in the prosecution of drug offences in Ireland. The Misuse of Drugs Regulations, 1988 lists under five schedules the various substances to which the laws apply.  

Alternatives to punishment are available in Ireland; for example, via Community Service Orders, probation services, and Drug Treatment Court programmes.