Concern over ‘risky’ sexual behaviour of ecstasy users

LARGE numbers of ecstasy users indulge in risky sexual behaviour while high on the drug, a conference on drug and alcohol use among young people will hear today.

The conference, hosted by Trinity College's addiction research unit, will also hear criticism of successive Government policy on drug and alcohol use, with claims it relies too much on the law to deal with the public health issues Criminologist and drugs expert Dr Karen McElrath, of Queen's University, Belfast, will present her in-depth study of ecstasy users and their lifestyles at the conference.

While 2.4% of 15-64 year olds admit recent use, the percentage of younger people taking the drug on a regular basis is much higher.