I move:
That leave be granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide gas by prohibiting its sale in a reusable cylinder or disposable cartridge to a person who has not attained the age of 18 years and for that purpose to amend the Child Care Act 1991 and to provide for related matters.
I am introducing the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2023. This Bill would amend part of the Child Care Act 1991 and make it an offence to sell containers of nitrous oxide gas to a child or young person under the age of 18. Many of us in this Chamber will be aware of the widespread dangerous use of nitrous oxide by children and young people in our communities. Many serious injuries and even deaths have been caused by its improper use. This Bill aims to keep the substance out of the hands of children and empower gardaí to seize it where they find it in the possession of a child, while also recognising the many legitimate uses of nitrous oxide, such as in kitchenware.
