Investigation underway into major drug overdose at Midlands Prison, Portlaoise 

The Irish Prison Service (IPS) is investigating a major drug overdose incident at the Midlands Prison, Portlaoise.

It is reported that nine prisoners at the Midlands Prison are being treated for what is being described as 'drug related overdoses', with one prisoner understood to be in a coma. 

 The IPS is working closely with the HSE in response to what they describe as "a number of overdose presentations in custody at Midlands Prison on 18 September 2026". Extra vigilance is being taken within the prison and information for prisoners around the dangers of consuming contraband has commenced" 

In a statement posted on the IPS website, it states: 'The Irish Prison Service is committed to preventing the access of contraband including drugs into prisons and continues to be a high priority for the Irish Prison Service. The Irish Prison Service has committed to continuing to invest in new technologies and measures to support our efforts to keep contraband out of prisons.

Prison staff have increased the use of random and intelligence led cell searches on a daily basis. Our Canine Unit carry out searches around the prisons, including a greater focus on searching deliveries into prisons. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with An Garda Síochána with regard to preventing contraband entering our prison and this happens at both local and national level. The Irish Prison Service works closely with colleagues in An Garda Síochána on a regular basis and the sharing of intelligence has led to target searches resulting in the seizure of contraband.

There is a free confidential telephone line (1800 855 717) and text line (086 180 2449) which is operational. Prisoners, visitors, staff or members of the public with information on the trafficking of prohibited items into our prisons can pass on that information in the strictest confidence.