The campaign, Live Now, Drive Later, originated in York and was brought to Stormont last week by York Young People’s Champion, Councillor James Alexander, who aims to have the DVD rolled out in every school across Ireland.

“I welcome this campaign as, in my own constituency amongst others, there is a problem with joyriding and there has been all too graphic examples of the carnage joyriding can inflict on lives," Mr Burns said.

He added: "This is a worthwhile venture as we must try to educate people of the consequences joyriding can cause on the lives of innocent people.

“The SDLP backs this campaign and hopes it makes immediate impact on the mindset of young people who think it is acceptable to joyride but have not thought properly about the ramifications.”

York Councillor James Alexander said: “I am extremely honoured and inspired by the leadership shown by the SDLP on this matter who agreed to meet me at Stormont to discuss the campaign and how this can be rolled out across Northern Ireland.

“I hope this campaign will help educate many young people and save lives in Northern Ireland as it has done in Yorkshire and across other areas of Britain and Ireland.”