Irish Examiner view: Drink price initiative won’t be a silver bullet

WHO evidence suggests new minimum pricing rules will curtail the abuse of alcohol — but it may not be enough on its own

Some commentators suggest Ireland's new drink price rules will only serve to punish poorer people, public health experts say it could help minimise the harm due to alcohol. Stock picture

Today represents a new departure in perennial battle to minimise harm due to the abuse of alcohol.  Minimum unit pricing comes into effect today under the Public Health (Alcohol) Act. it is designed to eliminate the  availability of cheap alcohol, which health professionals believe contributes disproportionately to health and societal problems arising from abuse of the substance.

There has been much controversy about the measure. Some claim it will be counter-productive and impact almost exclusively on poorer people who avail of cheaper alcohol.