More outlets not the answer to alcohol abuse

OVER the last few years, alcohol in Ireland has become more available as a result of extended opening hours, increased availability in off-licenses, petrol stations and restaurants, and an increase in the number of special exemptions.

As availability increased so did our alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm. The high level of consumption is compounded by the fact that we have the highest level of binge drinking in Europe.

Regulating the availability of alcohol (limiting number of outlets and time of sales) is among the most effective measures in reducing alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm.