Change in alcohol laws - The problem is abuse, not drink itself

It SEEMS ironic that while the Irish pub is enjoying something of a boom in popularity around the world, it is declining in Ireland. Vintners claim that on average, one pub a day closes in this country. This could have enormous social consequences.

Rural areas have already been hit by the closing of post offices, and the demise of the local pub could lead to serious social problems, because the pub has traditionally been a significant social outlet as a meeting place. People can drink at home, but this could have dangerous ramifications, especially for those living alone in isolated rural areas.

In the social setting of a pub, somebody who drinks too much will not be served any more after they reach a certain point, whereas there is no such safeguard for people drinking at home. In some instances this will inevitably have dangerous ramifications.