STEPHEN O'BYRNES,
Madam, - It is difficult to comprehend the degree of social irresponsibility that lies behind the binge-drinking promotion by the Blackrock, Co Dublin pub featured in your edition of January 28th.
Given the overwhelming evidence of young people in particular over-indulging in alcohol, frequently resulting in violence, not to mention the health and financial cost for those concerned, this kind of cynical money-making racket simply cannot be tolerated.
With a €40 cover price for men and €25 for women, this means that to get "free" drink male punters must consume at least 10 pints on the night, and women five to six drinks. Is this really the way to promote responsible use of alcohol? The manager's comment - "People don't go out to get blotto and get sick. Nobody likes to be seen to be drunk" - reads like rank hypocrisy in light of this inducement to over-indulge.
This is an issue on which we should also hear the views of the vintners' organisation and the drinks industry representatives. It would also be helpful if local gardaí made it clear that they will object to a renewal of the licence for this premises in due course.
Finally, Madam, while this is an issue well worth highlighting, did it really need the full-colour picture that could only result in promoting this scheme?
STEPHEN O'BYRNES,
Yours, etc.,
Pembroke Place,
Dublin 2.