A Fianna Fáil MEP has called for a complete ban on the production, promotion and marketing of 'alcopops'.
Mr Sean O'Neachtain, who is contesting the North West constituency in the European elections, claimed today that nothing has cause more damage to Irish society in recent years than the promotion of alcohol drinks aimed exclusively at teenagers.
"No family in the west of Ireland is free from the danger of these alcoholic drinks," he said.
Mr O'Neachtain pledged to work "day and night" in the European Parliament for a total ban on alcopops if elected.
"The emergency and counselling services around the West of Ireland seem to be overrun with the fallout of this disastrous love affair with alcohol," he said.
"The time has come to take our heads out of the sand and face up to the fact that drink is hurting far too many young people in society."