Welcome for alcohol task force proposals
Players, past and present, along with officials admit the GAA must quickly take a leading role in a campaign against such abuses in Irish society.
Former Tipperary hurler and addiction counsellor John Leahy believes that the proposals will help change the attitudes held by many in the GAA towards the dangers of alcohol in particular.
"I would totally agree with the plan. And I think it is needed in the GAA as a matter or urgency.
"There is a history and a tradition of going back to the pub after matches and young lads growing up with alcohol around them.
"It is causing more and more problems," the Irish Examiner columnist added. "I know from my own experiences of working in the field that it takes away people's interest from the games. Drink takes over for many young people and I would see it at both club and county level.
"You take 15- or 16 year-olds who are good athletes and often they are fast tracked onto older teams and end up drinking. By the time they are 20 they are retired because they have turned to the drink."
He stresses that teenagers should be targeted as a priority in this campaign.
"The big thing about this procedure should be at teenage level. There is a line there that must not be passed and that is the message which should be given.
"I believe the GAA has a great message to carry and there is not a house in the country not affected by the GAA. They need to promote the lifestyle of discipline."
Former GAA President Mick Loftus, who has been highly critical of the Association's link with drinks sponsorship such as Guinness, complimented Croke Park for being proactive on the matter.
"My reaction would be positive," the Mayo man said yesterday.
"It is not before time when you think of the problem country wide. When I was coroner here 60% of road traffic accidents, suicide and drownings were alcohol related. It is estimated that there are 100,000 alcoholics in Ireland and each one of those effects the lives of four other people. It is a €2.2 billion industry which is having terrible consequences in our country.
"At last it is good to see something positive being done on the matter."
But he warned that the GAA must not rest on their laurels.
"Now I would like to see these recommendations and proposals pursued aggressively. I think if anything it will focus more attention on the problem. We need to change the culture in Ireland at present.
"The GAA will be the flag bearers to this end."
The chairman of Cork County Board, Jim Forbes feels that the issue must be addressed at every corner of the Association.
"I would welcome any initiative taken by any group to tackle the issue. Anything that can work towards curbing the abuse of alcohol, I would be 100% behind. I am sure that they have strong recommendations and I am sure that those recommendations will be followed throughout every part of the Gaelic Athletic Association."
However, Limerick hurling captain TJ Ryan issued a word of warning.
"I would be concerned from a viewpoint of clubs especially. How many small clubs across the country rely on the local pub or bar for sponsorship or for a few bob. I am not so sure if it will be so easy to find replacement sponsors if they are forced out."
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