154. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding medicinal cannabis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38008/16]

Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): My Department is aware that cannabis for medicinal use has been legalised in some countries and that there have been several studies internationally on the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids for a number of medical issues.

Cannabis-based preparations are strictly controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Acts. However, it is open for an Irish registered doctor to apply for a licence for such preparations for an individual, named-patient. Such applications will be considered on a case by case basis. The appropriateness of any particular treatment is a matter between the patient and their doctor.

Since becoming Minister for Health I have met with a number of patients and carers who believe that cannabis should be a treatment option for their medical condition.

I understand the concern of these and many other people who believe that cannabis should be a treatment option for certain medical conditions and I recognise the urgency and constant worry felt by patients with very distressing illnesses. As a result I am committed to urgently reviewing Ireland’s policy on medicinal cannabis.

I recently asked the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) to examine the issue of permitting the use of cannabis-based products for medical purposes in Ireland. The HPRA’s statutory role is to protect and enhance human health by regulating medicines and other health products and it has the necessary clinical and scientific expertise to provide advice on this issue.

Separately the Oireachtas Health Committee has now also begun to examine the issue of medicinal cannabis.

I hope to receive the report from the HPRA and the output from the Oireachtas Health Committee early in the New Year and I will then be in a position to consider future policy and progress any legislative changes that may be recommended.