McLaughlin 'shocked' by so-called legal high treatment figures

Derry MLA has asked Health Minister Simon Hamilton for a breakdown of the number of under 18s presenting for treatment after taking psychoactive substances, or so-called legal highs.

Ms McLaughlin, chairperson of the Stormont Health Committee, said she was “shocked” to learn 27 young people were treated for the effects of such drugs in the Western Trust area between 2011 2014.

The Sinn Fein MLA said so-called legal highs were having a “devastating impact” on young people.

She added: "The fact that teenagers are using these potentially deadly substances will be very worrying for parents and guardians.

"Robust legislation is needed as a matter of urgency to remove these psychoactive substances for sale, both in shops and online, so that more young people do not end up in hospital or worse."