SDLP: PLEA OVER DRINKING CRAZE

SDLP MLA for West Tyrone Joe Byrne is appealing to young people to stay away from a dangerous online drinking game in which participants are challenged to down a drink.

Mon 3rd February

Mr Byrne spoke of his concern about the new online trend which he said could lead to young people being placed in vulnerable situations

Mr Byrne said: "The popularity of this reckless craze has become increasingly concerning for parents and families across the North. It is believed to have begun in Australia and spread from there, with many of our young people taking it to extremes, downing large quantities of spirits and other alcoholic and intoxicating mixtures, sometimes with dangerous results.

"I am told that the aim of the ‘neknomination’is to down a pint of alcohol and then nominate someone else to do the same, giving them a window of 24 hours to do so. Most people who take part make a video of themselves carrying it out, and post it on social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter.

"I have noticed a number of uploads on social media, including Facebook, since last night and would urge those participating in this recklessness trend to consider the dangers this presents and the carnage it has already caused to the families of the two young lives lost.

"This is not a game. It is destroying lives. I would call on people to take these concerns seriously and look after their health and wellbeing by not participating in this 'game', and to protect their friends from the serious risks associated with it by not nominating them to take part."