Concerns are mounting over nitrous oxide misuse in Waterford, with a local councillor warning that the issue is becoming increasingly visible across communities and poses serious risks to young people.
Sinn Féin councillor Kate O’Mahony, who represents the Dungarvan–Lismore district, says both the health implications and environmental impact are escalating, particularly as the summer months approach.
Rising misuse among young people
Speaking about nitrous oxide misuse in Waterford, Cllr O’Mahony explained that the substance, commonly known as “laughing gas” is being increasingly used recreationally, particularly by younger people.
Nitrous oxide is a gas which, when inhaled, can cause dizziness, lightheadedness and a brief sense of euphoria. However, she warned that the effects are far from harmless.
“What we’re seeing now is no laughing matter,” she said. “It cuts off oxygen to the brain and can lead to serious health consequences.”
Serious health risks highlighted
Cllr O’Mahony pointed to growing medical concerns linked to nitrous oxide misuse in Waterford and beyond.
She said recent evidence highlights a rise in severe health complications, including nerve damage, spinal cord injuries and burns caused by the extremely cold gas.
“There are serious risks; nerve damage, spinal cord damage, and even burns to the skin and mouth,” she said.
Figures published in the Irish Medical Journal indicate a fourfold increase in hospital admissions related to nitrous oxide misuse between 2020 and late 2025.
Increase in littering across communities
Alongside health concerns, the councillor said the environmental impact is becoming increasingly visible, with discarded canisters appearing across public spaces.
“In my own area of Dungarvan, particularly along coastal locations, we’re seeing these canisters being dumped regularly,” she said.
She added that nitrous oxide misuse in Waterford is now evident across both urban and rural areas, with an expected rise as more people spend time outdoors during warmer weather.
Easy access fuelling the problem
Cllr O’Mahony also raised concerns about how easily nitrous oxide can be obtained, particularly online.
She said the product is often marketed in brightly coloured packaging and flavoured varieties, making it appealing to younger users.
“It’s very easy to access online, and that’s a major part of the problem,” she said.
Calls for legislation and regulation
Sinn Féin has proposed legislation aimed at restricting access to nitrous oxide, but Cllr O’Mahony criticised delays in its implementation.
The proposed measures would limit sales to licensed businesses, such as those in catering or medical sectors, and ban sales to anyone under 18.
It would also require sellers to hold licences and give Gardaí powers to seize canisters where appropriate.
“The government has delayed this legislation until October, and that’s extremely worrying given how fast this issue is growing,” she said.
Need for awareness and education
From a local authority perspective, Cllr O’Mahony believes more can be done to raise awareness about nitrous oxide misuse in Waterford.
She is calling for education campaigns targeting both young people and parents to highlight the risks associated with its use.
“This is not something that’s traditionally covered when we talk about drug misuse, but it’s becoming a real issue in our communities,” she said.
“Young people need to understand the risks, and parents need to be aware that this is happening.”
Concern ahead of summer months
With schools set to close for summer and outdoor social activity expected to increase, Cllr O’Mahony warned that the problem could intensify further in the coming months.
She said early intervention, awareness and legislative action are key to preventing the issue from escalating.
“This is a problem that is only getting bigger,” she said. “We need to act now before it becomes far more serious.”
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