Sir, – The head of communications and advocacy at Alcohol Action Ireland suggests that a willingness to discuss the changes in availability has caused in Irish society is what is needed (Letters, October 6th). While I acknowledge the historical changes listed, I would suggest that the conclusions drawn may be due to confirmation bias. Correlation is not causation. For years I have visited many countries, such as Holland or Japan, where on-street vending machines dispense alcohol, which have had the same availability and much lower prices but far fewer of the social problems we have in Ireland. I would suggest that willingness to discuss these other more complex social issues may have more of an effect than focusing simply on alcohol. – Yours, etc,
DAVID DOYLE,
Goatstown,
Dublin 14.