Last orders for culture of boozing

THE disclosure that so many people think drinking to excess is no big deal once again shows this country has a dysfunctional relationship with alcohol. While the survey by Drinkaware shows some people are trying to moderate their intake, it also reveals an ambivalent attitude towards binge drinking. When a poll finds almost 75% of those asked believe drinking to excess is part of Irish culture, the Government and health authorities are right to be very concerned. As the May Bank Holiday approaches Drinkaware’s warnings are well-timed as it is on such occasions many people abuse alcohol with serious consequences for families and society. Earlier this year the extent of Ireland’s addiction to booze was exposed when it was revealed up to 150,000 people here are alcohol-dependent. Dr Hugh Gallagher also lamented the authorities’ inability to tackle the drinking culture or deal with the spiralling levels of addiction. Alcohol abuse has been passed down the generations. There is unlikely to be a quick fix but the Government, as well as the health and education authorities, must embark on a longterm plan to finally change young people’s attitudes in relation to drink.