27/03/2026
Murray's Call For Pilot Drug Testing At Belfast Events Clears First Hurdle
An Alliance Party motion from Balmoral councillor Micky Murray to trial drug and pill testing facilities at major events and festivals across Belfast has passed its initial stage at Belfast City Council.
The proposal is intended to enhance public safety at large gatherings through on-site drug checking, with Murray arguing it would complement enforcement and support a public health-led, harm reduction approach.
Cllr Murray said: "Belfast is a vibrant, growing city with a thriving events and nightlife scene that we should be proud of. However, we cannot ignore the very real and increasing risks associated with drug-related harm at large gatherings.
"This motion is rooted in a simple principle: saving lives. Evidence from other regions shows that harm reduction approaches, including drug checking services, can play a crucial role in preventing overdoses and reducing the risk of serious harm.
"While enforcement remains important, it has not eliminated the presence of illicit substances at major events. In conjunction, we need a more balanced, public health-led response.
"Drug testing services provide individuals with information about what they are taking, helping them make safer decisions. Crucially, these services also allow health authorities to identify dangerous or contaminated substances quickly and issue public warnings.
"This is about taking a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to public safety. By working collaboratively with health professionals, community organisations, and event organisers, Belfast can take a leadership role in protecting people and reducing preventable harm.
"I look forward to progressing this conversation and ensuring that Belfast remains a safe and welcoming city for everyone."
The proposal is intended to enhance public safety at large gatherings through on-site drug checking, with Murray arguing it would complement enforcement and support a public health-led, harm reduction approach.
Cllr Murray said: "Belfast is a vibrant, growing city with a thriving events and nightlife scene that we should be proud of. However, we cannot ignore the very real and increasing risks associated with drug-related harm at large gatherings.
"While enforcement remains important, it has not eliminated the presence of illicit substances at major events. In conjunction, we need a more balanced, public health-led response.
"Drug testing services provide individuals with information about what they are taking, helping them make safer decisions. Crucially, these services also allow health authorities to identify dangerous or contaminated substances quickly and issue public warnings.
"This is about taking a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to public safety. By working collaboratively with health professionals, community organisations, and event organisers, Belfast can take a leadership role in protecting people and reducing preventable harm.
"I look forward to progressing this conversation and ensuring that Belfast remains a safe and welcoming city for everyone."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
21 March 2005
Belfast hosts international conference on drug-related harm reduction
A four-day International Conference on the Reduction of Drug-Related Harm is being held in Belfast's Waterfront Hall, today. Around 1,000 delegates from all over the world are expected to attend the 'Widening the Agenda' conference, which is being organised by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS).
Belfast hosts international conference on drug-related harm reduction
A four-day International Conference on the Reduction of Drug-Related Harm is being held in Belfast's Waterfront Hall, today. Around 1,000 delegates from all over the world are expected to attend the 'Widening the Agenda' conference, which is being organised by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS).
09 August 2023
PSNI And PHA Issues Dangers Of Drug Use Warning
The PSNI and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have issued a warning over the dangers of drug misuse, following a number of drugs related overdoses in Belfast recently. The warning comes amid ongoing media reports of an alleged "bad batch" of illegal drugs in Belfast.
PSNI And PHA Issues Dangers Of Drug Use Warning
The PSNI and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have issued a warning over the dangers of drug misuse, following a number of drugs related overdoses in Belfast recently. The warning comes amid ongoing media reports of an alleged "bad batch" of illegal drugs in Belfast.
01 March 2017
New Ad Campaign Launched To Encourage Reporting Of Drug Dealing
A major ad campaign has been launched urging the public to report drug dealing to Crimstoppers. The campaign, which will feature viral videos alongside bus, adshel, online and radio advertising, aims to highlight the damage drugs do to individuals, families and communities.
New Ad Campaign Launched To Encourage Reporting Of Drug Dealing
A major ad campaign has been launched urging the public to report drug dealing to Crimstoppers. The campaign, which will feature viral videos alongside bus, adshel, online and radio advertising, aims to highlight the damage drugs do to individuals, families and communities.
08 January 2019
Belfast Hit By 10 Drug-Related Deaths In December
The last month has seen 10 suspected drug-related deaths in the greater Belfast area, sparking concern across the community. PSNI Detective Superintendent Bobby Singleton said while the cause of death is not definitively known, the use of illicit or prescription drugs may have been a factor.
Belfast Hit By 10 Drug-Related Deaths In December
The last month has seen 10 suspected drug-related deaths in the greater Belfast area, sparking concern across the community. PSNI Detective Superintendent Bobby Singleton said while the cause of death is not definitively known, the use of illicit or prescription drugs may have been a factor.
04 November 2020
Public Urged To Shape New Alcohol And Drug Strategy
A new alcohol and drug strategy in Northern Ireland is set to be shaped with feedback from the public. Alcohol related harm alone is estimated to cost as much as £900 million every year in NI, with harms from other drugs potentially bringing the figure to over £1bn annually.
Public Urged To Shape New Alcohol And Drug Strategy
A new alcohol and drug strategy in Northern Ireland is set to be shaped with feedback from the public. Alcohol related harm alone is estimated to cost as much as £900 million every year in NI, with harms from other drugs potentially bringing the figure to over £1bn annually.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A few showers around in the morning but still plenty of dry and bright spells. Drier in the afternoon, although the odd shower still possible, with longer sunny spells developing. Mostly light winds but breezy near coasts. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:It will be a dry evening with some late sunny spells before turning cloudier from the west. Becoming cloudy for all overnight with outbreaks of rain spreading eastwards. Minimum temperature 2 °C.