Shane Curley (Fianna Fail)

Last week, I sat with a family devastated by the effects of HHC. For people who may not be aware of it, HHC is a synthetic drug which is widely available in vapes from vape shops in cities, towns and villages throughout the country. HHC is consumed through normal vapes. More and more young people are being exposed to these vapes, which can be legally bought. At present, HHC is not illegal and this is a serious problem.

The advertising that goes on for HHC is criminal. Companies are clearly targeting young people. A constituent in my area told me that her son, who is 14 years of age, said to her last week that the vapes looked like Hallowe'en sweets.

This is a strong drug that can have devastating impacts. There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that HHC is leading to psychotic episodes, which sometimes lead to suicide. This is tragic and families lives are being turned upside down. I encourage people to look at how these products are being advertised in vape shops. As recently as 2024, the Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine said these products are likely to be precipitating psychotic episodes. HHC is a relatively new drug and there is not a huge body of medical evidence about it, but it is becoming increasingly evident how dangerous it is.

I request a debate with the Minister for Health, Deputy Carroll MacNeill on two issues in this regard: that HHC be added to the list of controlled substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977, which is vital, and, even more importantly right now, the need to launch a strong public awareness campaign through the HSE to highlight the dangers posed by HHC to young people before more lives are lost. The effect on the family I sat with last week is devastating. We need to act quickly.