The Misuse of Drugs Act is the main piece of legislation covering drugs and categorises drugs as class A, B and C.

These drugs are termed as controlled substances, and Class A drugs are those considered to be the most harmful.

Offences under the Act include

• Possession of a controlled substance unlawfully
• Possession of a controlled substance with intent to supply it
• Supplying or offering to supply a controlled drug (even where no charge is made for the drug)
• Allowing premises you occupy or manage to be used unlawfully for the purpose of producing or supplying controlled drugs

Drug trafficking (supply) attracts serious punishment including life imprisonment for Class A offences.

To enforce this law the police have special powers to stop, detain and search people on ‘reasonable suspicion’ that they are in possession of a controlled drug.

Classification under the Act
 

Class A drugs

Include: Ecstasy, LSD, heroin, cocaine, crack, magic mushrooms (whether prepared or fresh), methylamphetamine (crystal meth), other amphetamines if prepared for injection

Penalties for possession: Up to seven years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both

Penalties for dealing: Up to life in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both

Class B drugs

Include: Cannabis, amphetamines, Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Pholcodine

Penalties for possession: Up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both

Penalties for dealing: Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both

Class C drugs

Include: Tranquilisers, some painkillers, GHB (Gamma hydroxybutyrate), ketamine

Penalties for possession: Up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both

Penalties for dealing: Up to 14 years in prison or an unlimited fine. Or both