The 'Stop Out of Control Drinking' report is primarily focused on culture - and tells us that our harmful drinking is deeply rooted in our culture, traditions and lifestyles. It's hard to disagree with that.
However, it is notable that whereas the report finds Irish people are to blame for our culture of harmful drinking and says we must take responsibility for it, the prominent role of the alcohol industry in creating this culture, and its vested interest in sustaining it, are omitted.
'Stop Out of Control Drinking' also informs us that there is no "silver bullet" and that "changing harmful drinking cultures and behaviours will require a range of joined-up and mutually reinforcing actions as well as changes in policy by government and many other actors".
This is true.
However, the three key evidence-based policy areas for reducing alcohol harm - alcohol marketing, availability and pricing - do not feature in the report's 14 recommendations.
To reduce alcohol harm in Ireland, we have to reduce consumption, which means selling less alcohol - the exact opposite of what the industry strives to do.
Source: Conor Cullen, Irish Independent, 24/09/15
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