Number of festivals to have HSE's harm reduction initiative is halved ahead of drugs strategy review

The HSE Safer Nightlife Harm Reduction Programme tent at Electric Picnic last year. Back-of-house testing involves the authorities checking drugs that have been discarded by festival goers into official 'surrender bins' at the HSE drugs.ie tents and medical tents. File photo: Sasko Lazarov/© RollingNews.ie

The HSE harm reduction initiative will be at two festivals this year with officials saying they won't expand the programme any further pending a review.

The operation of the HSE Safer Nightlife Programme at two festivals in 2025 compares to four festivals in 2024 and three in 2023.