A local volunteer from Ireland's largest addiction charity has warned that minimum unit alcohol pricing won't change the drinking habits of addicts in the border region.
John Smith volunteers with Cuan Mhuire in Ballybay and added that the change could lead to a black market along the border, as Northern Ireland won't implement similar legislation until 2023.
The measures mean a typical slab of 24 cans of beer will cost at least 40 euro and 80 cent, while a supermarket brand of gin or vodka has increased from around 13 euro to almost 21 euro.
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Speaking to Northern Sound, the Cuan Mhuire volunteer said many addicts "will still buy the alcohol, irrespective of price":
