An independent TD has launched his second attempt to legalise cannabis.

Luke 'Ming' Flanagan has formally tabled the Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013 to permit the drug for medical and recreational use.

I will be seeking leave to introduce the Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013 at first stage to the Dáil in the next half an hour. — Luke 'Ming' Flanagan (@lukeming) November 20, 2013

@IanofIreland slow burner. Pardon the pun. Will develop over the next twelve months. Vote in Dail next November. — Luke 'Ming' Flanagan (@lukeming) November 20, 2013

Last month TDs voted against a motion calling on the Government to legalise the drug.

But the Roscommon/South Leitrim TD says he believes the tide is turning in favour of legalised cannabis.

"I don't expect, I could be wrong, this house to support it, in the short term," he said.

"I do believe that in the long term this will be seen as very progressive legislation in the same way as, in the past, people in this chamber have stood up and spoken favourably of legalising contraception and divorce."