Majority believe Govt is failing to tackle alcohol problem
A majority of people believe Ireland has an alcohol problem and the Government is not doing enough to tackle it, according to a survey commissioned by the lobby group Alcohol Action Ireland.
Eight-five per cent of respondents said they believe Ireland's cultural attitude to alcohol needs to change, with most saying an agency should be set up to address the matter.
Just over half of those questioned said they would support an increase in taxation on drink if the money was specifically used for alcohol-related initiatives.
Seventy-one per cent said they believe alcohol advertising should only be allowed after 9pm, while 29% said it should be banned altogether.
Nine out of every 10 respondents also said they supported the Government's moves to introduce random breath-testing of motorists.
Alcohol Action Ireland is calling for an increase in taxes on alcohol in response to the survey, saying international experience shows this can be effective in reducing consumption, particularly among heavy drinkers and young people.
However, the body representing Ireland's alcohol industry has disputed the findings of the survey.
The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland has accused Alcohol Action Ireland of putting words in the mouths of respondents and asking deliberately leading questions to prompt certain answers.
