State to get tough on alcohol ads

ALCOHOL companies are facing advertising restrictions, including a ban on sporting event sponsorship, as the Government combats underage drinking.

Minister for Health Micheál Martin is determined to introduce legislation if advertisers and drinks companies will not co-operate.

Alcohol abuse is leading to increasing underage drinking, street crime, overflowing Accident and Emergency Departments and car accidents, according to the Government Task Force on Alcohol. This costs the country over €2.3 billion a year and the Department of Health sees alcohol advertising as an area it must urgently address.