Alcohol problems have now reached "epidemic proportions" in Ireland, writes Anne Lucey.
The abuse of alcohol is far more serious than all illegal drug-use put together, the Minister for Health, Mr Martin, said yesterday. So serious are alcohol problems, especially among young people, that the Minister is to begin an anti-drink campaign along the lines of the Government's anti-smoking campaign. "We have a problem with drugs. But we have a greater problem with alcohol and young people," Mr Martin said.
He said alcohol was being abused excessively, not so much in pubs as in car-parks, open spaces and sports grounds. The whole issue of addiction was one of the most significant underlying factors in many issues.
"Society hasn't' grasped the centrality of addiction," said Mr Martin.
Restrictions on alcohol advertising and the relationship between alcohol and sports sponsorship, and other social occasions are being considered by the Government.
Mr Martin said alcohol abuse was something the Taoiseach was very concerned about.
