The East Antrim MLA said: “Scotland first introduced minimum unit pricing in 2018 to reduce alcohol-related harm and since then the evidence has shown a 13 per cent reduction in alcohol-related deaths and a decrease of 4 per cent in hospital admissions wholly attributable to alcohol.

“It is about time Northern Ireland followed in these footsteps and adopted an equivalent policy. The evidence relating to Scotland shows the important beneficial impact MUP has on alcohol-related deaths.

“The most recent data from the Northern Ireland Statistic and Research Agency shows that in 2022 there were 356 alcohol-specific deaths in NI, which is a 46 per cent rise since 2012. Additionally in 2022, the alcohol-specific age-standardised mortality rate per 100,000 people was the highest on record.

“We should be deeply concerned by these figures, as they highlight a growing issue that is detrimentally affecting our society. It is urgent we prioritise tackling this issue and introduce MUP in the region, which will save lives and reduce pressure on health services. 

“Whilst the implementation of a MUP policy in Northern Ireland can make an important difference, I acknowledge it is not a silver bullet. Further work is required to increase access to treatment and recovery support for those already experiencing alcohol dependency and related challenges, and also in taking preventative action. 

“This is yet another example of how Northern Ireland is falling behind other jurisdictions. The Health Minister must proceed in making better evidence-based policy decisions such as introducing MUP which will help those dealing with the negative effects of alcohol, further support our health services, and ultimately save lives and adverse health outcomes.”