Catherine Conlon: Why the rising price of a pint is better for our health

Increasing the price of alcohol impacts on overall consumption figures as well as hospital admissions and deaths

The price of a pint is set to increase marginally in pubs and restaurants, but this will not raise additional funds to address the harm from alcohol.

The cost of a pint of Guinness is to rise by 4 cents from August 14. This is the second time this year Diageo has increased draught beer prices. The increase will apply across draught brands including Guinness, Carlsberg, Smithwicks, Harp, Rockshore and Hop House 13.

This price hike only affects the on-trade, meaning drinks sold in pub and restaurants. Meanwhile, alcohol in shops and off-licences is almost 70% more affordable than 20 years ago, according to a report published by Alcohol Action Ireland (AAI).