Youth drinking plan 'held back'

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Efforts to curb drinking among young people are being delayed at Executive level, the health minister has said.

Plans to introduce minimum pricing could be considered under proposals submitted by Michael McGimpsey.

But the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister has held back progress since before Easter, the Ulster Unionist minister claimed.

"My action plan is currently sadly stalled at the Executive," said Mr McGimpsey.

"All departments have indicated positively a response, some very positively, but right now the Young People's Drinking Action Plan, is stalled at the centre," he said.

"It seems to me with the number of weeks it is sitting there, this is an action that not only has public support but I believe will have a very strong effect, at least will have a very positive effect on pressing down on young people and drinking, something which is increasing all the time."

Deaths

Mr McGimpsey said alcohol was 62% more affordable than it was in 1980.

Alcohol was linked to 286 deaths in Northern Ireland last year.

The minister wants to introduce a cross-departmental group addressing access to alcohol.

Other changes already introduced in England and Scotland which the minister is interested in include restricting promotions and happy hours.