Ms McLaughlin, chair of the Assembly’s health committee, said:

“The rise in the rates of sexually transmitted infections, particularly among young people, is a worrying development.

“Great efforts have been made in recent years to increase awareness of sexual health issues and to promote safer sex.

“Unfortunately however, infection rates have risen and it is particularly worrying that he North’s HIV rate has doubled over the last ten years.

“The Public Health Agency has now launched an awareness campaign aimed at 16-34 year-olds and that is to be welcomed.

“I visited the sexual health clinic at the Royal Victoria Hospital recently along with the Assembly health committee and met with staff who are carrying out great work under very challenging circumstances.

“I would encourage anyone who is concerned about their sexual health to avail of the services that are available at local sexual health clinics.”