Public Urged To Shape New Alcohol And Drug Strategy

A new alcohol and drug strategy in Northern Ireland is set to be shaped with feedback from the public.

Alcohol related harm alone is estimated to cost as much as £900 million every year in NI, with harms from other drugs potentially bringing the figure to over £1bn annually.

Health Minister Robin Swann has launched a consultation on the new strategy and encouraged members of the public to comment on the document.

"This is a serious issue which can have long lasting and devastating consequences for those affected," the Minister said. "Despite the work already underway, neither my Department nor the NI Executive can reduce the harm related to alcohol and other drugs on its own. Many sections of society – individuals, voluntary and community organisations, and the alcohol industry – have a key role to play.

"During the consultation, I would encourage everyone and every organisation with an interest in this issue to consider the document and send in your views and comments – we are particularly keen to hear a wide range of views on which areas and actions we should take forward as a priority."

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride threw his support behind the strategy, adding: "In recent years, we have seen significant change in the patterns of use, such as the emergence of polydrug use, the continuing misuse of prescription medicines, and increasingly hazardous alcohol consumption among some groups. We must also consider the impact that COVID-19 has had on certain groups increasing their alcohol intake above safe levels. I believe that this is the right time to look afresh at these issues and to take on board new innovative and evidence-based approaches to tackling the harm being caused to so many across our society."

(CM)