Alcohol and drug abuse is a serious health issue. At a conference arranged by the Western Health Board which I attended last Friday, a speaker mentioned that only 6% of the population are teetotallers, the lowest ever figure in the history of the State. Reference was made to the fact that binge drinking is now the order of the day for young people. Smirnoff Ice and Bacardi Breezers are now available on draught and little concoctions, which are up to 45% proof, are added to drinks. Opening and closing times of public houses are not significant factors in the problem. Abuse of alcohol and binge drinking are dangers which must be highlighted. The Government must examine this problem, which will lead to serious health problems in the future.