TD: Beware of drink-spiking

FESTIVE revellers were yesterday urged to be extra-vigilant about the risk of their drinks being spiked in pubs and nightclubs.

Sedative drugs such as GHB and Rohypnol — which are odourless, colourless and tasteless — can incapacitate victims and wipe their memories.

The Government’s deputy chief whip Billy Kelleher yesterday said that seasonal socialising gives ample opportunity to those who poison drinks with such dangerous drugs.

The Cork North Central TD said: “In most cases, their intention is to stupefy and drug their victims, often with catastrophic consequences.

“It is vital that people take precautions to make sure they don’t become a victim.”

Revellers are warned not to leave a drink unattended, not to accept drinks from strangers and not to become a target by drinking alcohol to excess.

“Gardaí should be extra vigilant of party-goers who appear to be inadvertently under the influence of drugs over the Christmas period,” said Mr Kelleher.

“The message is clear: keep an eye on your drink and don’t let someone spoil your Christmas and New Year.”