Sir, – Nine years ago (Home News, April 16th, 2003) Enda Kenny, then the leader in opposition, said that urgent moves were required to protect a generation of young people from the “devastation” wreaked by alcohol abuse and that the party felt that the sponsorship and promotion of events by alcohol companies and pubs should also be banned. Strong words, “urgent moves” and “sponsorship banned” no less.
On July 17th (Home News), you reported that Fine Gael and Labour Ministers are at odds over proposals to counter alcohol abuse which are due to come before Cabinet. Some Fine Gael Ministers have continuing reservations about plans to restrict drinks advertising and to curb, and eventually phase out, sponsorship by alcohol companies.
What has changed in Fine Gael attitude to the drinks industry sponsorship of events in nine years? Could it be that it is now in power and is afraid to upset the powerful drinks lobby? In light of recent events in the Phoenix Park and the continuing abuse of alcohol, particularly by our young population, shouldn’t the Government be rushing to the forefront to protect our children? Like excessive alcohol, this turnaround is vomit inducing. – Yours, etc,
Sir, – Your Editorial writer (“Minimum drinks price welcome”, July 16th) suggests that the “insulting and demeaning put-down – ‘the drunken Irish’ – has undeniable roots in reality. We have a responsibility to change it.”
All true, of course, but what a shame it will take legislation to change our bad habits – where is our moral fibre? – Yours, etc,