Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow John Brady has welcomed the confirmation that the synthetic drug HHC is to be added to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations as a schedule one controlled substance.
Deputy Brady, who has been raising the alarm about the dangers of HHC for some time, said the decision is an important and necessary step in protecting public health, particularly that of young people.
“I welcome the decision to finally add HHC to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations. This is something I have been calling for over a long period of time. The drug has been far too easily available, often in vape form, and it has gained popularity among young people, many of whom are unaware of the serious health risks associated with it.”
HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol, is a synthetic cannabinoid that mimics the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol, the active component in cannabis. It has been sold openly online and in shops across Ireland, with little to no regulation until now.
“This is a potent substance and is often used by young people. I often have parents, youth workers and others who work with young people discussing the impact of HHC with me, particularly how anxious it can make people feel, and how dependent they can become on it. Like all synthetic drugs, you do not know what you are getting and as it is relatively new, the long-term effects are unknown. There is also the concern that products containing HHC are often sold in attractive packaging, deliberately marketed to younger users.”
John Brady said the Government had been slow to act but that the move to schedule HHC under the regulations is a welcome one.
“This step is long overdue. We cannot allow dangerous synthetic substances to be sold freely while communities and families are left to deal with the consequences. Adding HHC to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations will restrict its sale and possession, which is the right and responsible thing to do.”
Deputy Brady said he will continue to monitor the issue and push for greater public education around emerging synthetic drugs.
“We need to be proactive when it comes to public health and drug harm reduction. This move to ban HHC is a positive step forward, but we need to ensure young people are properly informed and protected from the risks posed by these substances, and that we are quick to act on the sale of synthetic drugs.”