Fine Gael councillors call for action on laughing gas abuse among Dublin youth

The motion will be discussed at tonight’s meeting of Dublin City Council, with South-East Inner City councillor Danny Byrne saying “nitrous oxide is being treated as harmless fun, but it isn’t.”

“We are seeing canisters dumped all over our city and young people putting their health at real risk. This is no longer just a nuisance issue – it’s a public health issue.”

The motion highlights serious concerns about the health risks associated with nitrous oxide misuse, including neurological damage, loss of consciousness, and increased risk of accidents. It also points to the growing problem of discarded gas canisters littering streets, parks and residential areas across the city.

The Fine Gael motion will call on Dublin City Council to develop targeted education and awareness campaigns for young people, work with An Garda Síochána to address illegal sales and supply, and collaborate with schools, youth services and community groups to reduce harm.

Byrne said, “young people deserve clear, honest information about the risks. We also need proper enforcement and a joined-up response. Ignoring this problem will only make it worse.”

The South-East Inner City councillor said “the aim of the motion is prevention, not punishment, and to ensure Dublin responds early before more serious harm occurs.”