More lives at risk over online fad

Young people are risking their lives by taking part in a social media drinking game linked to two deaths over the weekend, say mental health experts and youth representatives.

The game, “neknomination” is played on social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter and involves a person being videoed as they drink alcohol as fast as they can before nominating someone else to do the same within 24 hours. A global phenomenon that began in Australia, it has gripped Ireland in recent weeks.

The body of Jonny Byrne, 19, was taken from the River Barrow near Milford Bridge, Carlow, shortly after 11am yesterday. The talented hurler, from Leighlinbridge, Co Carlow, posted a video of himself drinking a pint on Saturday shortly before he entered the river.