'No indication that extra risky batches of heroin are in circulation' in Cork city

Test results on substances that were circulating Cork city last week have shown no indication that “extra risky” batches of drugs are in circulation.

The tests came following two deaths in the city on Friday, with HSE head of drugs and alcohol services in Cork and Kerry, David Lane, telling The Echo previously: “Usually, to be definite about a substance in circulation, it needs to be tested first.

“However, on Friday we went ahead of that usual process because two deaths in one day in a small city like Cork is hugely concerning.”

A HSE statement issued following the test results explained: “We cannot comment on individual cases when to do so might reveal information in relation to identifiable individuals, breaching the ethical requirement on us to observe our duty of confidentiality.

“A full postmortem review will need to be conducted on all suspected drug-related deaths, which can take time.

“Based on an analytical review of local samples obtained in Cork, the HSE currently has no indication that extra risky batches of heroin are in circulation, as reported through the media.

“The HSE has liaised with local stakeholders and no future cases of concern or increases in overdoes have been reported to the HSE.

“As a result, no risk communication or alert was issued by the HSE.

“The HSE works with national services to review drug trends, and communications are issued when extra risky batches are identified on the market.”