Tax hike would reduce ill effects of alcohol

THE real price of drink in Ireland has decreased dramatically in recent years, with alcohol now 50% more affordable than it was in 1996.

But this cheap drink comes at a high price. Our high levels of alcohol use cost the state and employers more than €1 billion every year through alcohol-related absenteeism, illnesses, accidents, poor performance at work, lost profits, sick pay and lost revenue.

Todays’ budget presents the Government with an opportunity to take simple and cost-effective measures to reduce the high levels of alcohol-related harm and the cost of responding to them.

In our pre-budget submission, Alcohol Action Ireland proposed an increase in excise duty on alcohol by a modest 10 cent and the implementation of a €1 minimum price per unit of alcohol.

A modest 10 cent increase will raise an estimated €140m in much needed revenue, while the minimum price of €1 per unit of alcohol will save millions by reducing the cost of alcohol use on our health, social and policing services with immediate effect.

Recently-commissioned research from Alcohol Action Ireland highlighted public support for increasing excise duty on alcohol and yet the excise duty has been increased just three times in the past 15 years. When we are considering cuts in essential services, why aren’t we considering something as simple as a 10 cent increase in alcohol excise?

Increasing excise on alcohol and introducing minimum pricing are simple and cost-effective policy measures that will protect both our economy and our health.

Cliona Murphy

Acting Director

Alcohol Action Ireland

Butler Court

Great Strand Street, rear

Dublin 1