LIMERICK Council says it is aware of an increase in the number of nitrous oxide canisters being discarded as litter across the city and county.
In a statement to the Limerick Post, the local authority described the trend as a concern, particularly in public spaces such as parks and residential areas.
Posing both immediate and long-term risks, health experts warn that there is no “safe” level of use of nitrous oxide, and the more people use, the higher the risk of harm. Using large amounts of the gas can lead to nitrous oxide poisoning and other serious conditions.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Neuroradiology, led by a consultant neuroradiologist at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, pointed to an “alarming” spike in the number of young people in Ireland ending up with spinal cord damage and lasting injuries from inhaling nitrous oxide.
Researchers found cases of spinal cord damage caused by nitrous oxide have “spiked significantly” since the Covid-19 pandemic.
The concerns raised by the Council come after a report in this publication last week, highlighting the discovery of a significant number of large nitrous oxide canisters on the Pass Road in Caherdavin. The find was also deemed “deeply concerning” by local councillors representing the area.
Under EU waste legislation, discarded pressurised containers of nitrous oxide are classified hazardous waste and must be handled accordingly, the Council explained.
Limerick City and County Council revealed that it is taking proactive steps to ensure these items are managed safely and responsibly.
“The Council is at an advanced stage of procuring a specialist contractor who will oversee the recycling of the gas cylinders.
Other actions being taken include establishing procedures for safe collection and recycling, procuring appropriate, compliant storage containers for safe handling and containment, and training staff in the safe collection of canisters from public areas, parks, and local depots. This approach is in line with industry best practice,” the Council commented.
Aontú councillor Sarah Beasley, who represents the City North area, considers the sheer volume of canisters discarded on the Pass Road as deeply concerning and a blight on the local community.
“A lot of young people think nitrous oxide – laughing gas – is harmless fun, but it’s not. In 2020, a 15-year-old Dublin boy, Alex Ryan Morrissey, died after inhaling it. His heartbroken father warned others to stay away from what he called a ‘lethal drug.’ His son didn’t survive after taking just one canister,” said Cllr Beasley.
The Council warned that nitrous oxide canisters should not be placed in household waste or recycling bins. Members of the public who find discarded canisters are advised to contact the Council by phone on 061 556 000 or to email [email protected].