Growing Hemp In Ireland

In Ireland, for the most part of the 20th century, the cultivation of industrial hemp was banned and it was not until 1995 that the Irish government recognised its economic value. Currently it is legal to grow hemp, but only under licence from the HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority) on behalf of the DOH (Department Of Health). There are only certain varieties that can be legally cultivated, and the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component, is strictly controlled and must not exceed 0.2%. Farmers are obligated to test their crops THC levels 40-60 days following seeding and crops must be destroyed if THC exceed permitted levels.