HSE Issues Urgent MDMA Warning Ahead of Electric Picnic Festival

URGENT UPDATE: The HSE has issued a critical warning regarding high-strength MDMA pills at the Electric Picnic festival in Stradbally, Ireland. These pills, containing up to 300mg of MDMA, pose an “extreme risk” to festival attendees, with this dosage being three times the standard amount.

The alert, released just yesterday, emphasizes the dangers of drug use, stating, “It’s safer not to use drugs at all. You can never be sure of the contents or purity.” The HSE urges anyone in need of assistance to seek medical help immediately, highlighting their on-site support services.

Festivalgoers can access the HSE’s Safer Nightlight Harm Reduction Programme, which offers a free and confidential drug-checking service. Attendees can surrender drugs for testing at two designated tents located in the Electric Arena and the Hendrix Campsite. These “non-monitored safe spaces” provide harm reduction advice, empowering users to prioritize their safety at the festival.

Professor Eamon Keenan, HSE National Clinic Lead in Addiction Services, stated that this initiative is a pioneering effort in Ireland. “This project not only benefits the public but also serves as a valuable resource for on-site medical services,” he noted. Last summer, the program helped identify dangerous MDMA pills linked to seizures, allowing officials to alert the public promptly.

As the festival progresses this weekend, around 50 trained volunteers will deliver outreach services throughout the campsites. They will provide crucial information and support on drug use while discussing emerging drug market trends. The HSE continues to stress that the safest option is to abstain from drug use.

For those who choose to use drugs, the HSE recommends starting with a small dose, avoiding mixing substances, and staying hydrated. Festivalgoers should remain vigilant for signs of a drug emergency, including overheating, muscle pain, severe headaches, confusion, or seizures. In an emergency, knowing the location of medical tents and being honest with medics about what substances were consumed is vital.

Stay tuned for further drug trend updates and safety advice on the drugs.ie social media accounts throughout the weekend. Your safety is paramount at Electric Picnic—don’t hesitate to take advantage of the available resources.