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Alcohol misuse in Ireland a major ‘problem’
Diageo and Pernod Ricard claim alcohol misuse in Ireland is still a major problem, despite consumption falling by 25% since 2001.
The average Irish adult drinks 11.68 litres of alcohol a year, down from 14.3 litres in 2001
New figures released today by Revenue/CSO, show that alcohol consumption in the country is now at pre-1990 levels, having dropped a further 7.6% in the past year.
The findings, released as part of Ireland’s Alcohol Awareness Week (31 March to 4 April) show that Irish consumption of alcohol is “fast approaching EU norms”.
Current data published by Alcohol Action Ireland reveal the average Irish person consumes 11.68 litres per year, compared to a European norm of 10.7 litres.
According to the group, Irish adults binge drink more than their European counterparts.
But despite the fall in consumption, the country’s largest producers believe more should be done to bring the country in line with the rest of Europe.
“We are calling on all stakeholders to consider the important role that the industry needs to play as part of the societal response to alcohol misuse,” said David Smith, country director for Diageo. “We don’t have all the answers, but we are willing to work with anyone who genuinely wants to make a difference.”
Anna Malmhake, CEO, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, added that the reintroduction of a ban on below-cost selling would be an “immediately effective policy”.
“We urge the government to work with all stakeholders to develop and introduce evidence-based solutions that will address alcohol misuse instead of punishing the majority of consumers who drink responsibly, with relentless tax hikes,” she said.
“Looking forward there are many things that the industry can do to bring about a society where alcohol is enjoyed, not abused, and being drunk is simply uncool.”
Alcohol Action Ireland maintains a “healthy” amount to drink each year is 9.2 litres per person. Alcohol consumption reached an all-time high in 2001 when the average person drank 14.3 litres a year.