Drug laws and licensing
Cannabis reclassification
In January 2004 Cannabis was reclassified from a Class B to a Class C drug. It is still illegal.
Cannabis is a controlled drug and possession, production and supply is illegal, only the penalties changed in 2004.
Changes to the law
For supply, dealing, production (including cultivation) and trafficking
The maximum penalty is 14 years imprisonment. This has increased from 5 years for all class C substances including GHB and Valium.
For possession
The maximum penalty has been reduced from five years to two years imprisonment.
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Possession - the law for adults
Most offences of cannabis possession would result in a warning and confiscation of the drug. However if there are aggravating factors, such as smoking in a public place or repeat offending, they may be cause for arrest and prosecution. -
Possession - the law for young people under 18
For a first offence of cannabis possession, young people under 18 will be arrested, taken to a police station and given a formal warning or reprimand. Further offences will lead to a final warning or charge.
Frequently asked questions about the reclassification of cannabis
