Madam, - I am in total agreement with the ban on tobacco advertising and the current and forthcoming restrictions on smoking.
Why are similar limitations not extended to the promotion of alcoholic products in newspaper, television and radio advertisements and via sponsorship of sporting events?
Health authorities are fully aware of the destructive effects of excessive drinking on our physical and mental health. Cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, heart conditions and the carnage on our roads are just some of them. The domestic violence that ravages many homes often stems from drunkenness.
Health warnings should be displayed on liquor bottles, even on beer mats. I enjoy a drink myself and alcohol in moderation adds to the pleasure of many social occasions. But why is so little being done to educate the public, particularly young people, on the dangers of abusing alcohol?
Despite what the liquor industry would lead us to believe, one doesn't have to be intoxicated to have a good time. - Yours, etc.,
GEORGE WILLOUGHBY, The Avenue, Gorey, Co Wexford.