[Oireachtas] Seanad Eireann debate. Alcohol consumption: statements (resumed). (07 Nov 2012)
External website: https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/seanad...
Acting Chairman (Senator Pat O'Neill): I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Alex White, back to the House. We resume with Senator Mullins, who has three minutes remaining.
Senator Michael Mullins: I welcome the Minister of State back to the House, and welcome also this very important debate and discussion. On other days when we have discussed this issue, the many problems associated with the abuse of alcohol have been raised, such as domestic violence, unwanted pregnancy, child abuse, pressure on the health services and the fact that our accident and emergency rooms are full at weekends and 2,000 hospital beds are occupied as a result of alcohol abuse. That is without mentioning the number of road deaths, other health issues and the increase in the number of suicides in recent years, many attributed to the abuse of alcohol. We all agree there is no more sad sight than witnessing young people on our streets at night getting sick, not knowing where they are and exposing themselves to grave danger.
Alcohol should be located in a cordoned off area in large supermarkets and that proof of identity should be requested if it is being purchased by a young person. There should be mandatory training for staff involved in selling alcohol. There is little doubt but that those who are under age are consuming alcohol purchased by their older friends. This is a major issue. In the context of education, schools and colleges must place much greater emphasis on alerting young people to the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. We should use and exploit social media to get the message across in this regard, particularly as so many young people use such media.
Senator Ned O'Sullivan: Alcohol has been available either as a product or a commodity for as long as people have been on the planet. These statements are on alcohol consumption as opposed to alcohol abuse. I would, therefore, like to consider some of the positive aspects of alcohol before I focus on the downsides. I am partial to a drink. When consumed properly by adults, alcohol can be of benefit both socially and from the point of view of health. It lends gaiety to festive occasions and can be a source of comfort at funerals and other times of grief and trauma. A drop of sherry brings a good colour to one's complexion. All of these aspects must be mentioned before we refer to the downsides.
A Substance use and dependence > Prevalence > Substance use behaviour > Alcohol consumption
A Substance use and dependence > Effects or consequences
A Substance use and dependence > Substance related societal (social) problems > Underage drinking
B Substances > Alcohol
G Health and disease > Public health
L Social psychology and related concepts > Availability, accessibility, and supply
L Social psychology and related concepts > Legal availability or accessibility
MP-MR Policy, planning, economics, work and social services > Economic aspects of substance use (cost / pricing)
VA Geographic area > Europe > Ireland
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