Electric Picnic: HSE issues warning over 'high strength' MDMA

The HSE has issued a warning to festival-goers at Electric Picnic that "high strength" MDMA pills are in circulation at the event.

In a post on X, the health service said the pills are causing medical emergencies, including fits.

The HSE has facilities at Electric Picnic to carry out on-site drug testing and drug disposal services to reduce harm for attendees.

High strength MDMA pills are in circulation at @EPfestival . These are causing medical emergencies, including fits. It’s safer not to use drugs at all but if you do #StartlowGoslow mind yourself and care for others. #ReduceTheHarmshttps://t.co/233FOhoCdT pic.twitter.com/vsJ6bmRj0m

— HSE Drugs.ie (@drugsdotie) August 16, 2024

Two Drugs.ie tents are open from 11am to 9pm daily. A further two surrender bins are located at on-site medical spaces where people can deposit drugs for analysis.

Around 75,000 people are in Stradbally, Co Laois, for Ireland's biggest annual music and arts festival.

The event expanded its capacity from 50,000 people in 2019 to 70,000 in 2023 and to 75,000 this year.