Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 March 2013
292. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Health if there is a programme in place nationally to educate adults about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15649/13]
View answer293. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Health the action his Department is taking in primary, secondary and third level schools in terms of alcohol awareness education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15650/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 292 and 293 together.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that real and tangible proposals are currently being finalised on foot of the recommendations in the National Substance Misuse Strategy Steering Group report. These proposals cover all of the areas mentioned in the report. These include the recommendations to further develop a co-ordinated approach to prevention and education interventions in relation to alcohol between all stakeholders in educational institutions (including third level); to seek greater co-ordination of prevention activities at both national and local levels to target, among others, drink-related anti-social behaviour/public order offences, excessive drinking generally, and those who are pregnant or likely to become pregnant; and to continue the development and monitoring of Social and Personal Health Education (SPHE) Programme in schools.
In addition, the National Substance Misuse Strategy Steering Group recommended low-risk weekly guidelines of alcohol consumption for men and women; and that labels on alcohol products sold in Ireland should include the number of grams of alcohol per container, along with calorific content and health warnings in relation to consuming alcohol in pregnancy. As this is a service matter, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
