A council in Northern Ireland could soon be introducing a new scheme to test employees for alcohol and drug use.

Elected members of Derry City and Strabane District Council this week gave their support for a new Workplace Alcohol and Drugs Policy.

The new scheme aims, a council spokesperson said, ‘to provide a safe and healthy work environment for employees.’

It is estimated the policy will cost about £2,000 to implement, but according to the spokesperson it will reduce the costs and risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and drugs.

‘If the policy is ratified at full council it will be implemented in the coming months following a programme of training for line managers and awareness sessions for all employees,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Recognised trade unions have given their approval of the new policy and any review will take place in consultation with them.’