Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

It meant there were not large numbers coming out on the streets at the same time. To deal with this we must change the culture and position of alcohol in society. Like any culture, it will be difficult to change because the desire to have a drink is deep-rooted in our tradition and we are recognised as a nation fond of a tipple. That is fine but young people have no respect for alcohol. In French society, alcohol is not taboo. The culture of drink among young people in Ireland, however, has created a taboo where large amounts of drink are taken before it is legal. I am not suggesting we should remove the legal age for consumption but there should be guidance in the home in order that alcohol does not become a demon that has an attraction for young people.

There was a debate recently about the problems caused by young people over-indulging in alcohol. People had talked about date rape drugs when, in reality, alcohol was to blame. For a long time they believed drinks were being spiked and a sinister element in society was responsible when alcohol consumption was the real culprit. Anything that can prevent such over-consumption would be helpful.