Madam, - There has been much discussion recently about the problem of alcohol among young people. The most surprising aspect is the apparent perception by some commentators that this social ill is confined to just one generation. The problem we have with the "demon drink" is nothing new, nor should revelations that young people drink too much surprise anyone; are they not imbued with the values of the society they grow up in?
Our country's drink culture is abetted by a weak band of politicians more interested in their jobs than in facing the truth about our society, and by a ridiculously influential vintners' federation.
Recent legislation from the Minster for Justice has done little to help. One of the main thrusts of the new political campaign is to restrict access to pubs for under-age drinkers. I believe this will simply ensure that these minors will drink instead in a field or in any number of other locations that are completely unsupervised.
Suggestions that we should instead seek to provide alternatives to the prevalent drinking culture so prevalent in our society and to investigate why a lot of young people "drink to get drunk" don't appear to carry the same weight as the draconian measures the Government seems intent on pursuing. Nobody seems to want to examine why it is cheaper to buy five cans of larger than go to the cinema in Dublin at the weekend, or why, if one does decide to go to a pub, it is cheaper to buy a pint of lager than a pint of any soft drink.
Contrary to popular belief colleges and students are among those striving to redress the situation. College alcohol policies are being introduced across the State, prohibiting alcohol advertising on campus (in contrast to the Government's policy), restricting alcohol promotions and encouraging alcohol-free events. The recent NUI Galway Rag Week was pioneering in its focus on alcohol-free events and was by all accounts a huge success.
If we saw a little more realism and a little less hot air from certain quarters I think we would all be surprised what progress could be made. - Yours, etc.,
WILL PRIESTLEY,
President,
Union of Students in Ireland,
Dublin 2.