23 June 2025

SDLP Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin has welcomed the Justice Minister’s decision to introduce a Legislative Consent Motion (LCM) that will extend new legislation to Northern Ireland, making spiking a standalone criminal offence for the first time.

Under the provisions of the proposed legislation, it will become an offence to unlawfully administer a harmful substance with the intent to injure, aggrieve, or annoy another person.

Ms McLaughlin said:

“I very much welcome the Justice Minister’s decision to introduce legislation that will make spiking a standalone criminal offence in Northern Ireland. This is a long overdue step forward for the protection of women and vulnerable people in our communities.

“I have been raising this issue for several years, particularly after a number of spiking incidents in Derry caused real fear and alarm. It is disappointing that the Minister initially said there was no case for change, but I commend her for now listening and acting.

“This must be a turning point and not just the final step. We now need a coordinated and robust approach to tackle spiking and support victims. That includes introducing a requirement for all licensed nightclub venues to provide spiking testing kits, so that individuals have the means to test their drinks and so venues are equipped to act swiftly where incidents are suspected.

“Women deserve to feel safe on a night out. Making spiking a criminal offence sends a strong message, but we must match that with practical measures to prevent it from happening in the first place.”