A rise in gun attacks in west Dublin is having a knock-on effect on services at the local emergency department.

Doctors at Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown say there has been a huge increase in the number of gangland victims coming through its doors since 2000.

This new study, published in the Irish Medical Journal, highlights the devastating effect of gun crime in cold hard facts.

In the 10 years up to 2010, 65 gunshot victims were admitted to Connolly's emergency department - placing a burden on hospital services.

All but one of those admitted were male. The eldest was 52 while the youngest was just 15.

Handguns have also emerged as the weapon of choice, possibly because of their potential to kill when compared with shotguns.

A report on the effects of gangland crime in our communities is currently being prepared by Independent TD Finian McGrath.

He says drugs are not the only reason for the rise in gun crime.

Similar studies going as far back as 1985 shows almost year on year increases in gangland crime.

Seven suspected gangland hits have taken place in Dublin since the start of this year alone.