A severe overdose incident occurred at Portlaoise Prison on Monday, resulting in 12 inmates being hospitalized after reportedly overdosing on an opioid. All affected individuals are in stable condition, and their progress is closely monitored.
The Prison Officers Association has expressed grave concern over the situation, blaming successive governments for their ineffective action. They have criticized authorities for failing to address the ongoing issue of drug smuggling into prisons adequately.
The Irish Prison Service has increased its efforts by collaborating with the HSE in response to the incident. They have distributed additional naloxone kits, which are used to counteract opioid overdoses, and have implemented enhanced searches for contraband across the prison system. An informational campaign has also been launched to educate prisoners about the risks associated with illegal drugs.
Despite these measures, Gabriel Keaveny, Deputy General Secretary of the Prison Officers Association, argues that these steps are insufficient. “Despite the diligent efforts of our staff, no substantial measures have been taken by the authorities to address the drug problem in our prisons effectively,” Keaveny remarked.
Earlier this year, the Irish Prison Service issued a nationwide alert about a hazardous blend of drugs, including a citizen-type substance known for its high risk of overdose. The specific drug involved in Monday’s incident has not yet been confirmed.
The Prison Officers Association also reported a recent attack on a staff member’s home, allegedly linked to drug-related issues. Additionally, Keaveny highlighted a past incident where a drone carrying drugs reached Mountjoy Prison, leading to severe health issues and one fatality.
Detective Chief Superintendent Séamus Boland from the Garda Drugs and Organized Crime Bureau warned that drugs like nitazene, a potent synthetic opioid, may become more prevalent. While acknowledging the danger, Boland assured that health services and the HSE had established protocols to manage potential drug influxes.
Boland stated, “We are all deeply concerned by these incidents, especially within our prison system. Thanks to the proactive measures by our health departments, we have the necessary resources to address and manage these overdose situations effectively.”
