Blog

IVF mix-up proved thanks to DNA testing

DNA testing has once again been used to discover mix-ups surrounding in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Two months ago, we reported how a couple who took a DNA test ‘for fun’ were shocked to discover that the husband was not their son’s biological dad. Now, another US couple have again resorted to DNA testing to prove […]

National Grandparents Day 2021

In October each year, Ireland celebrates National Grandparents Day. This year, the country will commemorate this special day on Wednesday 6th October. After all, if we have Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, why not also dedicate a whole day to grandparents? National Grandparents Day is an annual celebration of the special relationship between grandparents and […]

Paternity testing for siblings in Ireland

When performing paternity testing for siblings, we can establish whether or not brothers and sisters share the same mother and father, or whether they share either their mother or their father. Full siblings each have the same biological parents, while half-siblings only share one biological parent – either the mother or the father. How does […]

Drug and alcohol testing for logistics companies in Ireland

As Christmas approaches, many logistics companies across Ireland are starting to think about drug and alcohol testing programmes. For firms offering transport, haulage and other distribution services, Christmas 2021 promises to be a particularly busy one. Coupled with increases in binge drinking across Ireland and the social pressures of the festive period, now is the […]

Women face obstacles when accessing drug and alcohol treatment in Ireland

It is well documented that women face significant barriers when attempting to access treatment services for drugs and alcohol. The experiences of Irish women tell a similar story. Despite the rising number of women reporting drug and alcohol use in Ireland, they are less likely to attend drug and alcohol treatment services than men. Earlier […]

Dublin’s drug problems continue with crack cocaine and heroin use rife

According to the latest figures from the Health Research Board (HRB), the number of people entering treatment for crack cocaine use has increased by 400% in the last six years. In 2014, 84 people in Ireland entered drug treatment for crack cocaine use. In 2020, that figure rose to 414. The number of women reporting […]

New initiative will see the Garda undergo random drug testing

One in 20 gardaí will undergo random, annual drug testing as part of a new drive against substance abuse within the force. In June, it was announced that a newly formed Anti-Corruption Unit, which comprises 26 gardaí, will focus its efforts on drug use within the Garda as well as issues around professional boundaries. Last […]

Ireland’s cocaine use has doubled since 2003, new data shows

New data from the Health Research Board (HRB) has found that cocaine use in Ireland has doubled since 2003, with more men aged between 25 and 34 using the drug than ever before. Findings from the National Drug and Alcohol Survey 2019-20 also show increased use of illegal stimulants and continued high levels of binge […]

Ballymun sees surge in drug dealing and crack cocaine use, new report finds

A recent report commissioned by Dublin City Council suggests that Ballymun in north Dublin is experiencing a “surge” in crack cocaine use, drug dealing and youth crime. The number of drug offences in the former high-rise area has doubled over the past four years. Senior gardaí who contributed to the report stated that open drug […]