Expert: Ireland operates as ‘conveyor belt’ for alcohol industry

Ireland operates as a “conveyor belt” for the alcohol industry with 60,000 children starting to drink every single year, an Oireachtas committee has heard.

Health experts claimed the country’s lax controls on alcohol advertising and sponsorship allowed the drinks industry to “groom” children” — claims rejected as “sensational” by alcohol groups yesterday.

The joint committee on transport and communications was told, contrary to submissions from sports bodies at previous hearings, alcohol sponsorship does lead to early and more drinking among young people.