Alcohol can be a source of enjoyment and is an important part of the economy in many countries. Yet harmful alcohol use is a leading risk factor for premature death, injuries and many noncommunicable diseases. Harmful alcohol use can also affect others, for example in the case of violence and foetal alcohol syndrome. These diseases and injuries, in turn, have an impact on healthcare budgets and the productivity of the labour force.

Ireland has one of the highest levels of alcohol consumption – 12.9 litres of pure alcohol per capita per year, roughly equivalent to 2.6 bottles of wine or 5.0 litres of beer per week per person aged 15 and over. In addition, in Ireland, some population groups are at higher risk than others; specifically: