Sixteen Kildare Residents Died From Drug Poisoning Over A Two-Year Period

Tuesday, 16 December 2025 15:28

By Martin Osborne - Head Of News

Nationally, drug-related deaths fell slightly compared with 2021, but remain well above pre-pandemic levels, with most deaths occurring in private homes and many people found to be alone at the time.

Sixteen people living in Kildare died from drug poisoning between 2021 and 2022, new figures show.

The data, published by the Health Research Board, shows Kildare recorded fewer deaths than several neighbouring counties, but the figures still form part of a national total of 716 drug-poisoning deaths between during the same period.

Since 2013, 3,483 people have died across the country due to drug poisoning.

Deaths involving cocaine have risen sharply - from 32 cases in 2013 to 115 in 2022, with most involving multiple substances.

Nationally, drug-related deaths fell slightly compared with 2021, but remain well above pre-pandemic levels, with most deaths occurring in private homes and many people found to be alone at the time.

The report also highlights strong links between drug poisoning deaths and alcohol dependency, mental health difficulties and social vulnerability.

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