The condemnation of Ireland's drink culture by the President, Mrs McAleese, in the United States has been strongly supported by Government and Opposition politicians, writes Mark Hennessy, Political Correspondent.
However, the speech in Charlottesville, Virginia is also seen by some politicians as the opening chapter in the President's effort to win re-election to the office in elections due in November 2004. The Tánaiste and Progressive Democrat leader, Ms Harney, said: "She was giving her views of the country, and, by and large, talking about the positives. But she was equally drawing attention to what she called the darker side of life in Ireland.
"That is a reality and I think it is important that we face realities," said Ms Harney, who was conscious that there has been some unhappiness with the fact that the speech was made in the US. "No doubt when you make comments of this kind, whether at home or abroad, there are always people who want to take a different point of view and they are entitled to that. There would be nobody who would be more respectful of that fact than President McAleese herself," said the Tánaiste. The President's speech was cleared in advance by the Government, in line with normal practice.
"We are very fortunate that we have a President that is very articulate, that is very warm, that is very popular both at home and abroad. Certainly everywhere I go abroad, people sing her praises about the manner in which she promotes this country.
"I am not going to speculate as to where people should make speeches, that is a matter for the President. I think she has been an outstanding President," said the Tánaiste, after she announced a major jobs boost for north Dublin.
Meanwhile, Fine Gael TD, Mr John Deasy said the President was "absolutely right". "When the head of State feels compelled twice in one month to speak about this you have to take notice," he declared.
A host of figures and organisations from parents bodies to psychiatrists and addiction experts have expressed alarm in recent months about drinking habits, said the Waterford TD.
"I don't care where the President said it. That should not be a factor in people's reaction to her speech. What is the priority here? Dealing with the problem, or getting worried about our image," he went on.
Drinking habits will form a significant part of Labour leader Mr Pat Rabbitte's speech to his national conference in Killarney, Co Kerry at the weekend, party sources said yesterday.
Private party research has shown that alcohol consumption is the biggest worry that parents and young couples have today: "I don't know any middle-aged parent who is not scared witless," said one party source.
Though it accepts the President's sincere worries about the issue, figures in Labour and other parties also believe that the speech marks the opening of Mrs McAleese's bid to win re-election next year. A high public opinion approval rating for the President could dissuade some possible Opposition candidates, such as Independent Senator, Mr David Norris, perhaps, from entering the race.