Dail committee to hear alcoholism effects

TDs and Senators are to hear first-hand accounts of the effects of Ireland's alcohol problem when consultants from accident and emergency wards address the Oireachtas Health Committee later today.

Alcohol-related problems cost Irish taxpayers an estimated €2.5bn each year, mainly due to the pressure they put on hospital resources.

Fianna Fail TD Batt O'Keefe, the chairman of the Oireachtas Health Committee, said he wants to hear an overview of the situation, how it affects hospital resources and staff and recommendations on how to overcome it.