Ireland has previously taken a hard line on drugs, introducing blanket bans on substances sold by the likes of head shops.

Ireland has previously taken a hard line on drugs, introducing blanket bans on substances sold by the likes of head shops.

THE PRESIDENT OF GUATEMALA has been criticised for his proposals to legalise drugs – after he argued that the only way for the use and transport of drugs to be properly regulated would be to make it legal.

Otto Perez Molina said he wanted to “bring the discussion to the table” at an upcoming meeting of Latin American leaders.

He is not the first Latin leader to urge a rethink on drug policy – three months ago his Colombian counterpart Juan Manuel Santos said countries should consider legalising marijuana “and more than just marijuana” to try and clamp down on the lucrative drug trade.

Supporters of the idea believe argue that a large amount of modern crime is linked to drugs in one way or another, with gangland shootings linked to drug trafficking, or thefts by people trying to support a habit. The sale of drugs could also be regulated and taxed.

Opponents argue, however, that making it legal to consume dangerous drugs is an open invitation for people to try them – pointing to the risks posed by head shops – and risk causing irreparable harm to themselves and their families as a result.

Today we’re wondering what you make of it – whether Ireland should take the bold step of legalising illegal drugs, or whether it’s better to stay on the current path.

Should Ireland consider legalising drugs?

