<MEGA MERGE> General Head Shop discussion thread. Read posts # 1 & 1014

Health Minister Mary Harney is to bring an Order to Government today banning a number of substances available in head shops with immediate effect.

It follows approval for the measure from the European Commission yesterday.

The substances will be banned under the Misuse of Drugs Act and the Order is expected to be signed later today.

The list of the substances by common name is:

synthetic cannabinoids (contained in SPICE products)

benzylpiperazine (BZP) and piperazine derivatives

mephedrone, methylone methedrone, butylone, flephedrone, and MDPV

GBL and 1,4 BD


GBL and 1,4BD are legitimately used in a number of industries including in
chemicals and pharmaceuticals. It will now be an offence to import,
export, produce, supply or possess these substances where they are to be
used for the purpose of human ingestion (other than as a flavouring in
food).

“Their possession and supply are now illegal and subject to criminal
sanction of:
up to 7 years imprisonment and/or a fine for unlawful possession,
and,
on indictment, up to a maximum period of life imprisonment for
unlawful supply.

“This means that the reckless, irresponsible people who have sold and
promoted them must safely dispose of every product containing even one of
the substances immediately. Otherwise they could face criminal
prosecution. They cannot sell, supply, possess or distribute this stock,
with effect from the start of today, 11th May.