Shock tactics urged in drink abuse battle

PARENTS should have to pay medical costs arising from treatment of children who are injured due to alcohol abuse, Minister of State Noel Ahern told a conference on addiction yesterday.

Mr Ahern, who has responsibility for community affairs and the National Drugs Strategy, also said there should be a sales levy on drinks companies to be used for dealing with the effects of addiction.

Mr Ahern said there should be a direct charge on parents for costs arising from treatment of self-induced injuries, including visits to Accident and Emergency units.