Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
904. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Justice the policy in relation to the prevention of the online sale of psychoactive substances in cases in which it is clear from customer comments on the website that the substance is being acquired for human consumption; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21425/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the issues raised by the Deputy in connection with the online sale of psychoactive substances as well as the potential negative health implications on the unintended and unrestricted uses of these products. Indeed, I understand that the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has recently issued an advisory in connection to the emerging trend in the usage of cream whipper cartridges containing nitrous oxide.
It should be noted that while the circumstances of particular cases connected with a product's supply and usage might come within the terms of the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010, enforcement and prevention strategies are operational matters for An Garda Síochána and it would not be appropriate for me to intervene or comment on them.
I have been assured by the Garda authorities that they are taking all possible steps to address this issue. An Garda Síochána is aware that nitrous oxide has recently been raised by the Health Service Executive (HSE) as an emerging issue which has warned young people regarding the danger of using the substance. An Garda Síochána is aware of potential health issues that arise as a consequence of use of nitrous oxide, however, it should be noted that it is not a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Acts.
An Garda Síochána, through the Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB), interacts with the HSE and other relevant stakeholders, including the HPRA, where it observes particular trends in drug use that may require intervention on the part of the Department of Health or other relevant Department and/or State agency. In this regard, the GNDOCB is communicating with relevant state bodies relating to the possession and use by particular persons of nitrous oxide.
