Concerns Raised Over Public Safety At Odyssey

Concerns over public safety at a popular nightspot in Belfast have been raised.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has convened a meeting to discuss ongoing concerns about excessive alcohol consumption and public safety at the Odyssey Pavilion and surrounding area.

Represented at the meeting were; Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Belfast City Council, Translink, Department of Culture Arts and Leisure, Department of Justice, PSNI, NIFRS, NIAS and Pubs of Ulster.

The Minister called the meeting following the recent fatal incident at the Lagan Weir. Last week Minister McCausland visited the Weir where he met with the family of Joby Murphy, who fell into the water two weeks ago.

Minister McCausland said: "For some time there has been widespread concern about excessive alcohol consumption and how this can contribute to issues impacting on public safety in the Odyssey Pavilion and surrounding area. I met with the Murphy family last week when they highlighted to me their concerns about alcohol consumption, particularly promotions involving very cheap alcohol and its availability to young people.

"We need to learn from this tragedy and, as far as possible, make sure it does not happen again. My Department has initiated an immediate check on safety arrangements at the Weir and Footbridge and we have brought forward an external safety audit which was due to be carried out later this year.

"Recognising the effects of excessive alcohol consumption, I will bring forward regulations later this year banning certain promotions that encourage irresponsible drinking. My officials are also working with the drinks trade to develop a code of practice on promotions.

"A number of organisations and agencies have interests and responsibilities in this area and I am encouraged that those attending the meeting shared my commitment that determined efforts are needed on a number of fronts to protect our citizens. I was shocked to learn that ambulance call outs to the Odyssey area treble on nights when there are drinks promotions. There are clear health, as well as public safety, issues to be addressed and I am confident our community will support positive action."

(LB)