Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased to co-sponsor this legislation with my colleague Mark Ward. Reduction of the abuse of nitrous oxide is something I have been highlighting and working towards for some years. I introduced legislation to that effect in the previous Dáil. I am glad to have the opportunity to do so again.

The abuse of nitrous oxide is something that flies under the radar for many people. It is incredibly common. Many people have seen the rubbish left behind, as Deputy Ward said, especially the large black canisters, but not known what they were. "Where did these things come from?" is what many parents will ask. These canisters litter our green spaces and roadsides. Pressurised canisters can present a hazard to council workers going about their jobs and many volunteers who give up their time to keep communities tidy.

The easy accessibility and low cost of nitrous oxide make it a dangerous substance for misuse, particularly among young people. It is a gateway drug for them, especially young drug users, many of whom are children. Recreational use of nitrous oxide can lead to serious health consequences, including hypoxia, nerve damage and even death. The long-term neurological harm due to the depletion of vitamin B12 can be debilitating. Many young people who huff this gas may be signing up for serious problems later down the line. Regulation, as outlined in this legislation, can help curb the use of this gas, ensuring it is used for legitimate purposes. This is all aimed at protecting public health and reducing the environmental impact we can see so plainly in our communities.

This is a real health challenge that has been ignored for too long. The Garda want certainty and young people need to be made aware of the dangers they are facing. This gas is not harmless. A temporary high can have very permanent consequences. We should highlight the misuse of this gas and try to get some sort of ban on it.

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