Vast majority believe there is drink problem among teens

Wednesday, June 17, 2009 - 12:09 PM

Nine-in-10 people believe there is an alcohol abuse problem amongst Irish teenagers, according to a survey carried out for the Aislinn Centre.

The drink and drug treatment centre says three-quarters of people also believe alcohol is a "gateway" drug that leads teenagers to experiment with illegal substances.

Some 90% of respondents to the survey admitted to having alcohol in their homes and the Aislinn Centre says parents need to be aware that, by storing alcohol at home, they are offering their teenagers a route to drinking.