24 March 2026
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said that the DUP’s block on minimum unit pricing (MUP) for alcohol will have serious consequences for public health.
He was speaking after Health Minister Mike Nesbitt confirmed legislation could not be introduced in this mandate, despite majority support in the Assembly and Executive.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said:
“It’s unacceptable that when we have majority Executive and Assembly support for a vital public health intervention, one party is able to weaponise its veto and block it from being introduced. It was a DUP Health Minister who first floated this policy and they should outline what has caused such a sharp change in tack.
“We have a serious problem with alcohol in our society, with hundreds of people dying each year and many more affected by alcohol-related illness and harm, causing hospital admissions and increased pressure on our health service. This also has a really negative impact on the lives of those affected by this illness and the people around them.
“MUP is not a solution on its own, but it has been repeatedly shown to reduce alcohol-related harm and deaths. Surely that is enough to support this policy and save lives? No party should be able to block something that has the potential to deliver real benefits to public health, and that’s why the SDLP will continue to push for reform of Stormont and the removal of any party’s ability to block important legislation.”