AQW 39501/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of Departments that have responded in favour to the proposed Minimum Unit Pricing of Alcohol bill.
Asked by Nuala McAllister MLA on 30 January 2026
- Answered
- Written
- After due date
- Tabled
- 30 January 2026
- Answer due by
- 16 February 2026
- Answered
- 4 March 202633 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
As I have made clear, I believe that Minimum Unit Pricing for Alcohol could be a key mechanism to reduce alcohol-related harm in Northern Ireland and to address the health inequalities that exist in this area.
However, such a policy requires the support of the NI Executive, and I continue to await formal confirmation of the position of my Executive colleagues. Executive business is confidential.
Prior to the 6 April 2026, I am required to either bring forward legislation to set a minimum unit price for alcohol or make a statement to the Assembly on why it has not been reasonably practicable to do so. This requirement is provided in the Licensing & Registrations of Clubs (Amendment) Act (NI) 2021.