Increasingly concerned about the high level of alcohol consumption in the province, the Minister said he will soon be outlining his plans to tackle young people’s drinking in Northern Ireland and reducing the related harms.
The Minister said: “We have begun a co-ordinated approach with colleagues across Government in Northern Ireland, the Police Service and the local drinks industry to tackle this problem. And I am delighted to say there has been a positive response from all of these key stakeholders and I will soon be outlining a Young People and Alcohol Action Plan for Northern Ireland to provide a local solution for our local needs.”
The Minister revealed a ministerial meeting of the Department’s of Health and Social Development is to take place in the near future and further discussions with the PSNI are planned later this month.
The Minister added: “We need to change Northern Ireland’s drinking culture. But by working in partnership with our communities to look at enforcement and access to alcohol, improving knowledge and awareness, and providing treatment and support services for those who require additional help, we can begin to effectively address the issue.
“Alcohol is a very damaging drug. Excessive consumption clearly impacts on our physical and mental health. Young people are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of alcohol. Worryingly, the risk of suicide increases in those that misuse or are dependent on alcohol. It has also been cited as a major factor in domestic violence and anti-social behaviour.”
Notes to Editors:
1. The New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs (NSD), which was launched in 2006, identified addressing underage and binge drinking as key priorities. In relation to alcohol misuse, the approximate costs to Northern Ireland of excess alcohol consumption have been estimated at approximately £770 million per annum. Under the NSD the Department of Health is now developing a cross-sectoral, multi-agency action plan to address young people’s drinking.
2. Binge drinking, (i.e. adult males drinking five drinks or more and adult females drinking four drinks or more in a single session) is a particular feature of Northern Ireland’s drinking culture. Around 43% of men and 33% of women who drink, engage in at least one binge session per week.
3. Consequences of binge drinking can include:
- damage to brain cells;
- alcohol poisoning;
- a UK study in 2007 found that binge drinking in adolescence was associated with increased risk of health, social, educational and economic adversity continuing into later adult life;
- increased risk of high blood pressure, strokes, heart disease, some types of cancer, skeletal muscle damage,
- increased risk of violence, accidents and anti-social behaviour;
- increased risk taking behaviour, such as unsafe/unwanted sexual activity
4. For more information contact Jenny Magill, DHSSPS Press Office on 02890 520575 or mobile on 07833668748. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager Number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
