Hurling star warns students of drink danger

A FORMER All-Star hurler who stopped drinking is to discuss his addiction and the dangers of alcohol when he addresses some of his fans today.

Tipperary player John Leahy will be on a very different solo run this afternoon when he opens his heart to hundreds of students at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) as part of a series of events at the campus for alcohol awareness week.

Alcohol-free cocktails are being provided for free in the Dome Bar and restaurant today and Dr Chris Luke from Cork's University Hospital will speak on the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.

WIT has a strict alcohol policy. In rag week the college's Dome Bar was closed in an effort to encourage moderate alcohol drinking. Strict rules also apply on campus to alcohol advertising and sponsorship and how alcohol is portrayed to students.

First-year students were also lectured on the dangers of binge drinking during orientation week this year and bar staff were briefed on how to deal with drunken students. WIT publications and the campus radio station are also being asked to promote sensible drinking.

Professor Kieran R Byrne, WIT director, said the college's policy on alcohol took the approach outlined by the National Alcohol Policy published in 1996 which aims at promoting health by reducing the prevalence of alcohol-related problems.

"The ethos of Waterford Institute of Technology is to promote positive learning experiences through academic excellence in a caring and supportive community where students and staff in need of assistance are given the necessary supports," Professor Byrne said.

"WIT is obliged to provide a safe working environment for all students and staff. Alcohol issues cannot be tackled in isolation but must be seen within a broader context of lifestyle issues and Institute supports."