Kildare councillor voices concerns over ‘rising’ nitrous oxide abuse among young people

A Kildare county councillor has voiced concerns over what he referred to as the 'rising' presence of nitrous oxide abuse among young people.

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender voiced concerns regarding the 'increasing popularity' of nitrous oxide among young people in County Kildare.

The Newbridge representative's call to action comes in light of a recent case report compiled by the Health Research Board (HRB) for the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), which highlights a notable presence of nitrous oxide use, particularly among young people and those attending music festivals.

Cllr Pender, who also sits on the South Western Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, explained: "Nitrous oxide, commonly known as 'laughing gas', while not controlled under Ireland's Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977, is subject to restrictions when sold for its psychoactive properties.

"Data from various sources indicate a worrying trend of nitrous oxide use within both adult and youth populations in Ireland, with a marked increase in its availability and use in social settings."

He continued: "The findings from the HRB report are alarming and highlight a growing issue within our community that cannot be ignored.

"We are seeing nitrous oxide, a potentially harmful substance, becoming increasingly popular among our young people, with evidence of its use being particularly prevalent during social gatherings, festivals, and school breaks."

Cllr Pender pointed to a number of key findings from the report:

• A significant portion of users are young adults, with the highest usage among those aged 18–24 years.
• Usage patterns suggest infrequent but potentially harmful consumption, including instances where individuals use large quantities in a single setting.
• The substance is widely available, with variations in pricing and access, including online purchases and street sales.

He further said: "These insights demand immediate attention and action from all of us – policymakers, educators, parents, and community leaders.

"We must work together to raise awareness about the risks associated with nitrous oxide and develop targeted interventions to protect our young people from its harms."

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender (Photograph supplied).

Cllr Pender said that he is calling for a 'multi-faceted approach to address this issue.

"This would include:

• Enhanced education and awareness campaigns targeted at young people, parents, and educators.
• Closer regulation of the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide to prevent its misuse.
• Support for research to better understand the implications of nitrous oxide use and to inform public health strategies.

"As a community, we have a responsibility to safeguard the well-being of our young people; this includes taking proactive steps to address the use of substances like nitrous oxide that can have detrimental effects on their health and future.

"I am committed to working with local and national authorities, as well as community groups, to tackle this issue head-on," he concluded.

When asked by the Leinster Leader about what one should do if they are concerned that a loved one is abusing nitrous oxide, Cllr Pender had this to say: "If a parent, sibling, or any family member suspects or knows that a young person is using nitrous oxide, the first step should be to approach the situation with care, understanding, and without judgment; it's crucial to educate yourself about nitrous oxide, its effects, and the potential signs of use, to communicate effectively and supportively with the young person involved.

"Opening a dialogue about your concerns, based on observations rather than accusations, can encourage an open and honest conversation.

"Listening to the young person’s experiences and feelings is vital, as is expressing your support and willingness to help them seek professional guidance if necessary."

He continued: "In Kildare, we're fortunate to have resources like the Halo Project and Hope Cottage which offers a range of services and support for individuals and families affected by substance use.

"These services include counselling, education, and treatment options tailored to meet individual needs.

"I strongly recommend reaching out to them for expert advice and support.

"You can contact the South Western Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force directly to find out more about services on offer in the county, as they are always happy to signpost people in the right direction."

"The journey towards addressing substance use is often complex, and it requires patience, persistence, and support from the entire family and professional services... Taking care of your own well-being and seeking support for yourself is also important during this time," Cllr Pender concluded.

He also said: "For further information and to join the conversation on addressing nitrous oxide use in our community, please contact my office."

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Samaritans Ireland (116123 or jo@samaritans.org) or you can visit pieta.ie (24/7 Free Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444).

For further information related to seeking treatment for drug and alcohol abuse, please contact the HSE's confidential drugs and alcohol freephone helpline on 1800 459 459, from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 5.30pm, or email helpline@hse.ie.

You can also visit: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/addiction/drugshivhelpline/.