Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 25 Oct 2001

Vol. 543 No. 1

Written Answers. - College Alcohol Policy.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

61 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the main features of the document he recently launched aimed at promoting more responsible use of alcohol among third level students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25600/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

One of the actions called for in the national alcohol policy published by my Department in 1996 was the development of a campus alcohol policy which would promote sensible drinking among students and limit campus-related drinks industry sponsorship. Following discussions among a number of colleges a working group was established consisting of representatives from 20 third level institutions, the Union of Students in Ireland and the national alcohol policy advisor to the health promotion unit of my Department. The University of Limerick hosted the working group's meetings and the Higher Education Authority also provided support.

The framework for developing a college alcohol policy outlines a comprehensive strategy to enable each third level institution to develop a policy which is suitable to its own requirements. The framework document begins by outlining public health alcohol policy and discusses the college environment and student life within this context. The aims and objectives of a college alcohol policy are described.

The actual policy formulation process is outlined and the drafting, review and evaluation of an action plan are recommended. Five specific topics for inclusion in the policy document are included. These include issues such as marketing, promotion and sponsorship by drinks companies, activities to limit harm in the drinking environment, increasing awareness and education, encouraging alternatives and choices and finally providing campus support services.

The document goes on to provide contact details for the local support services around the country and other relevant organisations. Three examples of college alcohol policies, one from NUI, Galway, one from University College Cork and one from Dublin City University are also provided. I am confident that this framework document will be of great assistance to colleges and universities in their development of campus alcohol policies.