Chairman: I look forward to what I think is going to be a very interesting discussion. The topic is an examination of the current approach to sanctions for the possession of certain amount of drugs for personal use. It is a little bit of a long-winded way to say decriminalisation. We are examining whether the current approach of sanctions, including legal sanctions, work appropriately or should other methods or approaches be considered.

I welcome Dr. Garrett McGovern, medical director of the Priority Medical Clinic in Dundrum. From the Cannabis Risk Alliance, I welcome Professor Bobby Smyth and Dr. Hugh Gallagher, who is a specialist in addiction medicine. From Patients for Safe Access, I welcome Mr. Kenny Tynan, executive director, and Mr. Martin Condon, director. From Crainn, I welcome Mr. Brendan Minish, who is a board member. Mr. Minish is joining us online. I am delighted to have an international guest at today's meeting. I welcome Dr. Nuno Capaz, who is the director of the Portuguese Commission for the Dissuasion of Drug Addiction. I look forward to the benefit of his experience. It will be particular interesting to see what is done elsewhere. It is often good practice to look abroad and see what has worked or not worked elsewhere....

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View video of discussion by the Committee on Justice with stakeholders (2.25 hours. discussion begins at about 35 minutes).