A new training scheme for publicans, security and bar staff in pubs and clubs may be extended to the whole of Cork and Kerry after the completion of a pilot scheme in Cork city.
The aim of the training programme was to increase awareness of the negative effects of alcohol and drug misuse and to help identify possible solutions to deal with such issues.
More than 50 people comprising publicans, bar workers, and security staff took part in the two half-day sessions where training was provided by emergency medical technicians offering first aid and basic life support training and CPR.
Security personnel also heard about effective conflict resolution negotiation and understanding cultural differences.
Accident and emergency consultants related their experiences in drug and alcohol related cases and there were also contributions from senior gardaí.
The training programme was developed by the Southern Health Board's health promotion department in partnership with the Garda and local publicans.
Mr Damian Wallace, chairman of the board and of the SHB's committee on prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug abuse said the partnership approach had to be taken.
Levels of drinking and drug use and associated problems had escalated in recent years and it was important to equip those working in pubs and clubs with relevant information and skills, he said.