Alcohol consumption in Ireland: The most recent figures from the health promotion unit of the Department of Health paints a grim picture of the effects of alcohol consumption in Ireland.
Alcohol is a factor in 40 per cent of all fatal road accidents in Ireland and in 30 per cent of all accidents.
Some 48 per cent of all criminal offences are alcohol-related.
One in four of those attending hospital A&E departments in Ireland have an alcohol-related injury or illness.
Some 34 per cent of those seeking legal advice for marital breakdown cite alcohol as the main cause of their marital problems.
Some 35 per cent of sexually active teenagers say alcohol is a factor in their decision to have sex.
There has been a 390 per cent increase in intoxication in public places by underage drinkers since 1996.
Some 26 per cent of male and 11 per cent of female admissions to psychiatric services are for alcohol-related conditions.
Recommendations of report
The Government should put resources into ensuring that there is adequate enforcement of the existing laws aimed a tackling misuse of alcohol.
Establish an agency to operate at a national and regional level to implement the recommendations of the strategic task force on alcohol.
Reduce the number of outlets selling alcohol.
Reduce the opening hours of outlets selling alcohol.
Introduce a highly visible, well-publicised and well-resourced system of random breath testing for drivers.
Introduce statutory regulations on advertising and marketing of alcohol products, restricting alcohol advertising to after 9pm.
Use taxation as a means of reducing demand for alcohol by increasing prices in line with inflation.
Provide early intervention programmes in all social, health and justice systems.
Fiona Tyrrell