Brian O'Shea
Question:72 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give a progress report in relation to the implementation of the national alcohol policy. [19842/97]
Written Answers. - National Alcohol Policy.
The national alcohol policy was launched in September 1996. It is directed at reducing the prevalence of alcohol related problems through an emphasis on moderation in alcohol consumption. Because alcohol problems are multidimensional the policy sets out multisectoral solutions requiring both environmental and individual strategies.
Since the publication of the policy, a number of elements of the Action Plan has been put in place. The most significant of these are: the national alcohol surveillance centre has been established; a contract for a national lifestyle survey has been awarded; a contract for a new advertising campaign which will emphasise the message of moderation in drinking has been awarded. The campaign will run in January 1998.
Work is ongoing on a number of the longer term elements of the action plan, including developing the school curriculum to include a significant level of health as part of the curriculum, based on a lifeskills approach; development of policies in relation to health promoting schools, hospitals, workplaces and campuses which would include policies in relation to alcohol use; discussions with the drinks industry on their response to the policy, with particular reference to the problems of under-age drinking and the consumption of "alcopops".
It is intended to continue with the elements of the plan already commenced, and to make progress in relation to initiatives involving other Departments. Co-operation with industry groups will continue with a view to encouraging the industry to play its part in encouraging moderation in alcohol consumption. In addition, actions taken on the basis of the plan will be evaluated on an ongoing basis, so that the policy can be focused and effective.