About the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme

The Medicinal Cannabis Scheme came into effect on 1 April 2020 with the commencement of the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Regulations 2019.

The purpose of the Scheme is to improve access to quality medicinal cannabis products for patients.

Medicinal cannabis products are only available to patients on prescription from a doctor. Manufacturers and importers are required to provide evidence to the Medicinal Cannabis Agency that they consistently meet minimum standards of quality before they can be supplied.  

Those who want to work in the industry need to hold a medicinal cannabis licence or work for a person or company that holds a licence. The licence will specify the types of activities that a licence holder may carry out, such as commercial cultivation of cannabis or manufacture and supply of medicinal cannabis products.

Click one of the links below to find out what you need to know about the Scheme.

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