Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for that comprehensive answer in relation to the Act but why is it not being used at the moment? You only have to walk into any housing estate or any park and you will see discarded nitrous oxide canisters lying around. It is commonly know as laughing gas. When it first came out it was in small silver bullets and was called one hit wonders. It has been replaced by these larger canisters which are being sold on the black market for €40 or a dealer might do a deal of three for €100. Its use is widespread.

A recent report by the HSE adolescent addiction services has shown that 22% of young people attending its services admitted to taking nitrous oxide on occasion, reflecting an increase of 175% compared to 2021. That is a huge increase in the number of young people using nitrous oxide. Why is the Act not being used, because it does not seem to be? Does the Minister think additional legislation is needed to resolve this matter?

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