A Derry councillor has warned young people of the long term health affects of nitrous oxide after large numbers of canisters were found dumped in the city.

Aisling Hutton said: “I am deeply concerned at reports that a group of young people in our city were found in possession of nitrous oxide canisters while other canisters have been dumped at a number of other locations.

“Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is sometimes misused for its intoxicating effects. However, it can have serious health consequences."

The Sinn Féin councillor sits on the Derry City & Strabane District Council Health Committee and has warned people of the potential health risks for young people abusing the substance.

placeholder image — Councillor Aisling Hutton

“Long-term misuse has been linked to nerve damage, numbness in the hands and feet, balance problems, neurological conditions, spinal cord damage and mental health issues. Inhaling the gas can also cause oxygen deprivation and cold burns.

“I want to alert parents in Derry to this issue and encourage them to speak to their children about the dangers. These substances can quickly become a problem in our towns and cities, and we need to ensure young people understand the risks,” she said.

Nitrous oxide is classified as a Class C drug in the North under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, with further regulations coming into effect here in 2023.

The drug is commonly misused when it is inhaled from a balloon. Clinicians have warned that it can cause serious harm to the nervous system.