Sir, - Given the fact that we have 100,000 alcoholics in Ireland and many thousands more with serious problems resulting from alcohol, it is heartening to read of the launch by the Irish College of General Practitioners of the three-year programme designed to improve the management of alcohol problems in the community.
In recognising this positive and significant development, may I respectfully suggest that prevention of illness and injury was always the primary aim of the profession. To achieve it with alcohol, the ICGP should use its respected and influential position to speak out against the massive promotion of alcohol, through glamorised advertising and sponsorship of many events, especially sport. - Yours, etc.,
Dr Michael Loftus, Chairman, Dothain, Crossmolina, Co. Mayo.