Group welcomes Govt plan against low priced alcohol

Youth Work Ireland is welcoming Government plans to take action on the low-cost selling of alcohol.

It is reported today that the price of cheap drink will be increased in a bid to curb the abuse of alcohol by young people.

The cost of the cheapest cans of beer could double and €4 could be added to the price of a bottle of own-brand vodka.

Children's Minister Frances Fitzgerald said alcohol abuse costs the State around €4bn a year.

Ms Fitzgerald said: "From a public health point of view, action has to be taken in relation to this.

"There are huge cultural issues and we are paying a heavy price. If you just look at the unprovoked attacks, again and again alcohol is a feature of them."