The latest report from the Irish Penal Reform Trust shows the rise.
A former officer in a Laois prison and criminologist says drug seizures in prisons continue to be an issue.
A new report from the Irish Penal Reform Trust shows 69 were made last year in Midlands prison, up from 58 in 2023.
However in Portlaoise, the figure is down 55% from 48 to 22.
Former officer in Portlaoise Prison John Cuffe says it will take some time to tackle:
Midlands Hospital Experiencing High Admission Numbers
Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise is apologising for disruptions caused.
Founding President Of TUS To Step Down Next Year
Professor Vincent Cunnane will retire on January 31st next year.
Westmeath Father Loses Job After Using HSE Funds For Home Upgrades
60 year old Brendan Mee has admitted to 13 charges of deception.
Higher Education Minister Visits Offaly
James Lawless is learning about the work of LOETB'S Midlands Skills Training Centre in Tullamore.
Midlands Woman Pays Tribute To Sister After Manslaughter Sentence
Sean Egan was sentenced to 12 and a half years in jail for the manslaughter of Sharon Crean.
FTD Brothers Continue 32 County Marathon Challenge Through The Midlands
The brothers have raised £1.4 million so far.
Fresh Restoration Works Begin At Westmeath Castle
The project for roof repairs was awarded €3.2 million in funding.
Nearly 1,000 Homes And Businesses Hit Affected By Power Outage In Midlands Town
The fault in Athlone is expected to be fixed by 1pm.
TUI Says State Should Pay For School Devices
Some schools are insisting students have their own digital devices.
Musicians Gather In Offaly Celebrating Fr Liam Lawtons Music
Family, locals and fans attended the concert of pieces composed by the Edenderry Musician.
Minister For Health Wants Closer Working Relationship For Midlands Hospitals
She opened a new paediatric Emergency Department Extension in the Midlands on Friday.
US-Iran Peace Deal Nears As Talks Continue
A Midlands Defence Analyst believes it's a hard situation to read.
Westmeath Activist Calls Out Government After Being Detained By Israel
Irish activists returned home over the weekend including Moate's Louise McCormack.
Laois TD Voices Concern Over Appeal For Proposed Windfarm
Sean Fleming, who also chairs the Oireachtas Infrastructure Committee, is revoicing his opposition to Seskin Wind Farm.
HSE Still Formally Settling Offaly Hospice Dispute
An agreement was reached last week over the health body to repay the fundraising group an undisclosed sum of money.
Weeklong Heatwave Hits Midlands
Sun lovers can look forward to a number of days of settled weather.
Uisce Eireann Agree To Examine Pipeline Solution For Westmeath Town
Councillor Denis Leonard is calling for the estates to be connected to active sewer lines with proper downhill flow as a long-term solution.
Offaly's Comhaltas President Meets King Charles In Belfast
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann come sto Belfast this August.
Laois TD Demands Deer Be Tested For TB
Deputy Willie Aird feels the measure is vital.
Health Minister Opens Newly Extended ED Department In Laois
Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill opened a new extension to the emergency department in Portlaoise Hospital.
