Website offers Leaving Cert students advice on drinking

WHETHER CELEBRATING or drowning their sorrows tomorrow night, Leaving Certificate students are being advised to eat well before they go out, arrange how they are getting home in advance, and have soft drinks or water in between alcoholic drinks.

The Leaving Cert results, which are out tomorrow, are seen as a deserved opportunity for thousands of young people across the State to let their hair down and hit the town.

Drinkaware.ie, which issued the tips yesterday, said they are intended to ensure students remember the big night out – and for the right reasons.

“Eat well before you go out and snack regularly throughout the night. Even crisps or peanuts will really help soak up the alcohol and help you last the night,” it says.

“Keep yourself refreshed and hydrated by having a soft drink or some water every other drink.”

It advises against getting into a “round” system, adding: “If you find yourself in a round, it’s okay to skip a drink or ask for a water or soft drink if others are drinking faster than you.”

It urges students to respect the decision of non-drinkers not to drink alcohol. They are also advised to keep an eye on their drinks to avoid them being spiked and to avoid drunken arguments.

Parents, meanwhile, are advised to ensure their son or daughter has enough to eat before going out and to talk to them about their plans for the evening.

“It’s important that your child has enough cash for taxis etc, but giving them too much cash could lead to further temptation,” the site adds.