asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the first report of the Medico-Social Research Board that of the countries of Europe only France has a higher mental hospital admission rate for alcoholism than Ireland and that the male rate here is ten times higher than in England; and if he will comment on the report's questions relating to public education on the dangers of alcoholism.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Medico-Social Research Report.
6.
I have received very recently a copy of the report referred to. I have not as yet had an opportunity of considering it in detail. The report in itself does not reveal the complete picture of alcoholism but its import is of serious dimensions. I am satisfied that we have in this country a very serious problem of alcoholism and that it is important to promote public education on the dangers of this disease. I have already had a number of discussions on the matter with the Irish National Council on Alcoholism.
May I inquire when it is likely that the Minister will bring forward proposals in regard to further alcoholism and when the discussions with the council are likely to be concluded.
This matter will have to be studied and finance for it will have to be procured. I am studying it as rapidly as I can. The report was presented very recently. It is not complete in itself. There are other factors in relation to alcoholism which are not included in the report. The whole matter is under discussion in my Department.
Would the Minister state what money is provided by his Department for research into this problem?
I cannot say what moneys are provided. The research has been done up to now by the Medico-Social Research Board and this very interesting report has been presented by the board. The money for that was provided by my Department, but I cannot tell the Deputy the amount.
The Minister will agree that the Medico-Social Research Board is in existence only two years?
I am very glad it is in existence for two years.
It should have been here 22 years ago.
The Deputy can always say that, but he will find that other countries as well as ours have problems of alcoholism.
The Minister will agree that we have the highest rate?