HSE to send over 50 harm reduction volunteers and onsite drug testing lab to Electric Picnic

Returning for its third year, the HSE's 'Safer Nightlife Programme' will be at this year's Electric Picnic.

Festival-goers can seek information and support around the issue of drug use and surrender drugs for ‘back of house’ on-site drug checking, with two Drugs.ie tents opened from 11am-9pm Friday through Sunday at the festival.

There will also be two surrender bins are located at onsite medical spaces where people can deposit drugs for analysis.

Safer not use drugs: 

Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drug Strategy Colm Burke said on the initiative: “While it is always safer not use drugs, it is important from a public health perspective that we reduce the risks for those who chose to do so. We know that ongoing changes in the drug market present additional risks".

Speaking at Electric Picnic, Prof Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinical Lead, Addiction Services, explains: “Following very recent drug market changes, drug monitoring has become established as an important tool to help reduce harms among people who use drugs.

"We recently saw the value of this approach following the emergence of potent synthetic opioids and how, through back of house analysis, we could detect and rapidly respond to an emerging drug threat. This was the first time in Ireland that we could act in such a manner" he said.

Not monitored by an Garda Síochána:

Speaking about drug trends of concern, Nicki Killeen HSE Emerging Drug Trends Project Manager, says: “The current drug market is more dangerous than ever before. MDMA pills, powders and crystals are more potent, making it easier to take too much without knowing, which can lead to drug emergencies. We are aware of a number of MDMA deaths occurring each year and we expect this number may increase.

“Thanks to the public providing the HSE with drug samples to analyse, we have captured important Irish data to inform our emerging trends work. We are aware that MDMA now ranges between 140mg – 240mg of MDMA. In general, MDMA over 125mg is considered higher risk of causing an MDMA emergency. This means that taking one pill or small volumes of powder could be extremely risky.

“Another concerning trend is that powders are being added to drinks, which we expect to become more common. Ketamine use has greatly increased and many people not aware of its short and long term effects. We encourage anyone who chooses to use to read our harm reduction information on www.drugs.ie/festivals in advance and to talk with our teams throughout the weekend so we can help you minimise harms and stay up to date about the results of our drug analysis each day on our social media channels".

Killeen also emphasised: “Remember, the HSE drugs.ie tents and medical tents are safe spaces to surrender drugs, and not monitored by An Garda Síochána. By submitting one pill or a small sample of powder, you’re helping the HSE review the current drug market, something that isn’t normally done throughout the year. The more samples you submit, the better we can understand the national market - your contribution will not only help keep you safe but others too.”

Drug and Alcohol Helpline is available Monday – Friday 9:30am – 5:00pm on 1800 459 459 or through email [email protected]

The two Drugs.ie tents are open from 11am to 9pm Friday through Sunday

Key points to remember: 

• It is safer not to use at all. Risks increase based on individual factors such as your physical and mental health.
• Be in the know: Drug markets have changed and there is greater risk for you this summer
• Avoid trying new drugs at festivals
• Be with people you trust, make sure no one is left alone
• Mind yourself and others, be a good bystander if others need support
• Start low and go very slow. With any drug, start low and wait before taking more. It can take some time for the effects to be felt.
• Avoid mixing drugs. Taking more than one type of drug can be unpredictable and greatly increase the risks of a drug emergency.
• Know the signs of an emergency and what you will do. Signs could start as a headache, pain in arms and legs or overheating. If in doubt get it checked out
• Don’t be afraid to get help, your wellbeing is the medics main priority
• Talk to a professional after the event if you feel physically or mentally unwell.