Hospitality Ulster Comments On NISRA Statistics On Alcohol Related Deaths

16 January 2019

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster said today:

"These statistics from NISRA showing the increase in alcohol related deaths are very concerning as they are inextricably linked to the continued increase of drinking at home in Northern Ireland. This is a significant problem that needs to be addressed. 

It is now clear we need to bring in Minimum Unit Pricing of alcohol here.

The latest research shows that only 6% of the population consumes 44% of the alcohol, predominantly at home, with the negative consequences placing a huge strain on the health and social care system here. Attracting them into a pub would help to counter the negative impacts of home drinking.

This is a huge public health issue. We need the Assembly to return and for local legislators to meet this challenge head on."