Alliance Balmoral Councillor Micky Murray has welcomed the successful passing of his motion to introduce pilot drug and pill testing facilities at major events and festivals across Belfast. The proposal was approved during a meeting of the council's People and Communities Committee on 14 April.

Councillor Murray highlighted the importance of prioritising the safety of those attending the city's vibrant events and nightlife scene. He emphasised that providing testing services is a practical step toward ensuring attendees can make safer decisions.

Reflecting on the decision, Cllr Murray said: "Belfast is a vibrant, up-and-coming city with a thriving events and nightlife scene that we ought to be proud of. A key part of that is being able to ensure those who attend those events are safe in doing so and that they make it home again after. "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."

The motion, which was developed in collaboration with health professionals, event organisers, and community groups, focuses on harm reduction. Councillor Murray stressed that while enforcement continues to play a role in managing illicit substances, a balanced, public health-led strategy is necessary to mitigate risks.

"This motion was based on widespread research and collaboration with health professionals, community organisations, and event organisers, and was rooted in a simple principle: preventing overdoses, reducing harm, and saving lives.

"Whilst enforcement remains an important aspect of how we deal with the issue of illicit substances at big events and their potential harms, we must see a more balanced, public health-led approach taken in tandem.

"I'm immensely glad other parties have come together to join us in supporting this initiative and I'm very much looking forward to seeing it roll out."