The number of deaths caused by alcohol misuse in Northern Ireland has increased by 40% over the space of a decade, according to the Department for Social Development.

There were 284 deaths from alcohol misuse in 2010, indicating a 40% increase since 2001.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said: "While there has been a welcome reduction in overall consumption of alcohol over the past few years, harmful use of alcohol continues to place a significant burden on our public health - it is estimated to cost Northern Ireland up to £900m per year."

The figures have been released in a report that was established in the wake of the death of Joby Murphy, a 20-year-old who fell into the River Lagan in Belfast after a night out.

He had been attending a concert at the Odyssey and had been drinking in a club with an alcohol promotion.

Authorities set up a Responsible Retailing Code for alcohol as a result of the death, to examine cheap drinks promotions in licensed premises.

Mr McCausland said: "I cannot allow alcohol to be sold or supplied in an irresponsible manner and recent measures that I have taken forward reflect my commitment to taking firm action to address the issues associated with the misuse of alcohol."

The independent panel that reviews the issue has dealt with 18 complaints, four of which were upheld and two which involved promotions.

Chairman Duncan McCausland said: "We believe the code has had a very positive impact across Northern Ireland, so much so that the panel is aware that many licensees are now liaising with their relative industry body before engaging with any promotion to ensure that it falls within the agreeable terms of the code."

(IT/JP)