Meath West, Johnny Guirke, has urged all Meath TDs to support Sinn Féin’s legislation to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide. His comments come as Sinn Féin TD Mark Ward’s legislation to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide goes to the second stage in the Dáil on Tuesday. The bill was introduced in response to growing evidence of widespread nitrous oxide misuse in communities across the state, particularly among young people, and increased incidences of harm.
Deputy Guirke said it is shocking the government has failed to take action to tackle this and said they cannot continue to sit on their hands. Teachta Guirke said: “Sinn Féin’s legislation to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide will go to second stage in the Dáil on Tuesday. “Nitrous oxide misuse has become a growing issue in communities across the state. “Inhaling nitrous oxide cuts off oxygen to the brain resulting in lightheaded and giddy effects. This is where the name laughing gas comes from but make no mistake – laughing gas is no laughing matter.
“Its widespread misuse is resulting in antisocial behaviour, litter, and serious damage to people’s health. Young people are playing Russian roulette when they use this gas. “The health risks are serious, particularly for minors, as it cuts off oxygen to the brain for a quick light-headedness. There are also reports of frostbite damage from holding the canisters, and there have been several incidents across Europe of road death due to drivers under the influence of nitrous oxide. There has been at least one recent case in Dublin of a hit and run death, where the driver was suspected of being under the influence.
“Importantly, this bill will not criminalise people for simple possession of nitrous oxide, however it would give the Gardaí the power to seize the canisters from those without appropriate licences. “This cannot wait. Nitrous oxide must be regulated so that the general public, especially young people, are protected. “This is common-sense legislation, and I urge all members of the Dáil to support it.”
