Immediate ban for head shop substances

[Paper-mâché]

Minister for Health Mary Harney announced a criminal ban with immediate effect on a list of these drugs.

The ban makes it illegal to buy or sell mephadrone, spice products and substances which mimic cannabis, cocaine and ecstasy.

"Minister Harney brought an order to Cabinet to ban the substances following approval for the measure from the European Commission yesterday.

'These substances are dangerous and their sale and promotion have caused huge anxiety to families and communities throughout the country,' Minister Harney said.

'Their possession and supply are now illegal and subject to criminal sanction of: up to seven years imprisonment and/or a fine for unlawful possession, and, on indictment, up to a maximum period of life imprisonment for unlawful supply,' she said."

http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/0511/headshops.html