Now let’s see some action on drink
Justice Minister Michael McDowell’s proposed set of legislative changes demonstrate a commitment to action.
But enforcement is going to be the real key to change. In fact, if existing laws were effectively implemented, new ones would probably be unnecessary.
Rolling back opening hours on Thursday to 11.30pm will reduce problems on that night. But it is also an admission that extending opening hours was a mistake.
Can we now take it that there will be no further moves to worsen an already difficult problem?
The Government’s own national alcohol policy of 1996 and current advisory body, The Strategic Task Force on Alcohol, are clear about the health and social impact of alcohol policy decisions.
We fully support the Government’s show of determination to tackle the alcohol problem, but urge them to start taking their own advice, thus avoiding decisions rife in human consequences in the future.
We are now hopeful that our pubs, clubs and off-licenses will roll in with current efforts by fully enforcing the
under-age and intoxication laws.
There are many responsible licensees and every support in changing attitudes towards excessive drinking will help.
Marion Rackard,
Chairperson,
Irish National Alliance for Action on Alcohol, North Brunswick Street,
Dublin 7.
