Northern Ireland Health Minister Mike Nesbitt stated in the Northern Ireland Assembly on Tuesday that minimum unit pricing legislation for alcohol cannot advance before the next assembly election. He said executive agreement proved impossible despite his attempts to resolve concerns.

Nesbitt, an Ulster Unionist Party member, noted support from his party, Sinn Féin, Alliance, and SDLP. Primary legislation had been set for 2026-27. The Democratic Unionist Party did not back the plan.

Diane Dodds, DUP health spokesperson, called for expanded detox and rehab services alongside other steps to curb alcohol harm. Nesbitt rejected her points as deflection. DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said the party wants evidence-based proposals.

Nesbitt cited British Heart Foundation data showing 676 annual deaths from alcohol in Northern Ireland, including 248 from alcohol-related liver disease. The figure covers 7,426 alcohol-related hospital admissions each year.

Department projections indicate the policy would prevent 82 alcohol-related deaths, 3,482 hospital admissions, and 3,188 crimes annually. It would generate £117.4 million in healthcare savings over 20 years. The measure would apply to the lowest-priced, high-strength alcohol in shops.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride backs minimum unit pricing and met with the DUP. Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan said the DUP disregarded scientific evidence. SDLP MLA Matthew O'Toole blamed the DUP for halting the plans.