MSP: Drink problem is nothing to laugh about
Rab C Nesbitt and Still Game’s Methadone Mick have been criticised in parliament for encouraging prejudice against alcoholics and drug addicts.
Labour MSP Monica Lennon accused the TV shows of being “snooty class-based prejudice dressed up as entertainment” during a debate about alcohol and drug addictions this week at Holyrood.
The MSP, who lost her dad in 2015 to alcohol misuse, called for urgent action to cut the number of drink-related deaths and offer more support to the families of problem drinkers.
Ms Lennon said: “Labels such as alky, jakey and junkie dehumanise people.
“TV characters such as Methadone Mick poke fun at some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“I grew up watching Rab C Nesbitt on BBC Scotland. He is best known as the stringvested alcoholic lay-about.
“His illustrious CV, according to the BBC website, is work-shy slob and all-round nutter.”
The MSP, who was last week appointed Scottish Labour shadow secretary for communities and equalities, said Nesbitt made it appear that “drinking to excess was a lifestyle choice and certainly not one which the middle class would make”.
MSPs from all parties attended Wednesday’s debate, and urged the Government to do more to support people with alcoholism, drug addiction and the families of those affected.