DECRIMINALISATION VS LEGALISATION

Medical professionals have long argued that the State should decriminalise small quantities of drugs for personal use to relieve pressure on the overburdened courts system.

However, legislation of cannabis, for instance, would require far greater legislation and stringent controls to moderate its use.

Those in favour say it could also yield significant returns to the exchequer in taxing the sale of the drug.

But others fear it would lead to greater consumption and could act as a pathway to other harder drugs, such as heroin.