The Irish Prison Service is taking proactive steps to address the significant issue of addiction among prisoners by launching an innovative new initiative aimed at combating opioid overdoses. With a staggering 70% of individuals committed to prison having addiction issues, urgent action is needed to prevent tragic outcomes and protect those in custody during their reintegration into society.

Recent data has highlighted the severity of the situation, with 409 drug-related deaths in Ireland in 2020 alone due to drug-related poisonings. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that the risk of death from drug overdose within the first two weeks after release from prison can be as much as 12 times higher compared to the general population. These alarming statistics underscore the urgency of providing effective education and resources to people in custody.

Irish Prison Service, Director General, Caron McCaffrey said,

“We are delighted to partner with the HSE and the Irish Red Cross on this life saving initiative. Not only are we raising awareness inside our Prisons but we are helping to raise public awareness about how they can help save a life”

This joint innovative project focuses on raising awareness among prisoners, as well as their family members and friends, about the key risk factors leading to opioid overdoses. Central to this initiative is the promotion of naloxone, a drug that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. The aim is to equip individuals with the knowledge and access to naloxone upon release from prison and provide information on where to obtain it in the community.

The naloxone banners displayed at the visitors entrance to each prison aims to raise awareness by directing visitors to our demonstration videos on drugs.ie via the QR code embedded in them. These videos empower friends and family members to know how to recognise and respond to a loved one’s drug-related overdose, including how to administer naloxone to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid drugs while awaiting medical care to arrive.

Prof Eamon Keenan, National Clinical Lead, HSE Addiction Services stated:

“Sadly the increased risk of death from overdose in the first weeks after release from prison is well documented. The HSE very much welcomes the Irish Prison Service commencement of the provision of intranasal naloxone on release to people with a history of opioid use which may prevent fatalities in the event of an overdose”.

To further support this endeavour, the Irish Red Cross has produced two educational videos for broadcast on the in cell Prison TV channel. These videos are specifically designed to increase prisoner awareness and empower them to respond effectively in overdose situations. The first video depicts a recreated overdose scenario within the prison setting, where a prisoner recognises the signs of an overdose and promptly alerts prison staff to save their friend’s life, including administering naloxone. The second video provides comprehensive information on recognising an overdose and instructs viewers on how to respond, emphasizing the crucial role naloxone plays. It also highlights the accessibility of naloxone upon release from prison or within the community.

In addition, the Irish Prison Service prominently displays the Health Service Executives’ drugs.ie website, which offers invaluable resources, demonstration videos, and information about services available within the community.

This new and collaborative approach is poised to raise awareness, save lives, and contribute to the successful reintegration of individuals struggling with addiction. By providing education, naloxone access, and vital resources, the Irish Prison Service together with our partner organisations are actively working to mitigate the risks associated with opioid overdoses among those in custody.