HSE tenders for €480k contract to test wastewater for 'objective, real-time' data on illicit drugs

While data on drug use in Ireland is often collated using the likes of garda seizure data, surveys on drug use and treatment figures, the testing of wastewater is seen as a reliable indicator for drug use across a population. File photo

The HSE is to embark on a new project to test Ireland’s wastewater for illicit drugs to gain “objective, real-time" data on the drug market in Ireland and trends in use and consumption habits.

It has gone out to tender for a three-year contract worth €480,000 on the project aimed at informing research, policy and practice in the HSE’s National Social Inclusion Office as part of an early warning system for drugs, it said.

It wants to award the contract as soon as possible with analysis of samples to begin no later than the end of March 2026.

While data on drug use in Ireland is often collated using the likes of garda seizure data, surveys on drug use and treatment figures, the testing of wastewater is seen as a reliable indicator for drug use across a population.

“It involves sampling a source of wastewater, such as a sewage influent to a wastewater treatment plant,” the HSE said. “This allows scientists to measure the levels of illicit drugs and their metabolites excreted in urine, which can then be used to estimate the quantity of drugs consumed by a community.

“This provides a non-invasive, near-real-time analysis of drug use within the area served by the sewer network.” 

It said this formal testing can identify the “true spectrum of drugs being consumed” rather than relying on the recollection of individuals. This information can then be used to inform policy and local responses, as well as identifying changes in consumption habits and patterns.

It said: “Through sampling a source of wastewater, such as a sewage influent to a wastewater treatment plant, scientists can measure the levels of illicit drugs and their metabolites excreted in urine, which can then be used to estimate the quantity of drugs consumed by a community.” 

This project is aimed at enhancing wastewater surveillance through a dedicated project to provide regular updates to the HSE, and eventually develop a national programme in this area. It will run for an initial three-year period, at a maximum cost of €160,000 a year before its future is decided.