The Public Health Agency and Ireland's Health Service Executive have issued a joint warning about drug risks at festivals this summer.

The agencies say thousands of people will travel across the border for events and face greater dangers from high-strength MDMA and new substances including pink powders.

Stephanie Hanlon of the PHA said the collaboration aims to deliver consistent harm reduction advice and help people stay safe.

She noted that mixing substances, including with alcohol, increases risks, especially in unfamiliar settings or when separated from friends.

Nicki Killeen of the HSE said high-strength drugs remain a concern and urged people to understand the risks and know where to seek help.

HSE research found 35% of respondents plan to attend more than five festivals this summer and 89% said drug use occurs in peer groups when travelling to events.

Seventy-three percent identified pink powders as the main emerging trend in nightlife, while 27.5% reported use of cathinones.