Alcohol Consumption in Ireland

In the last decade, Ireland has seen many changes which have influenced the context and nature of drinking and increased alcohol related harm. Against the backdrop of the fastest growing economy in Europe, Ireland has had the highest increases in alcohol consumption among EU countries.

Overview

Between 1989 and 1999, alcohol consumption per capita in Ireland increased by 41%, while 10 of the European Union member states showed a decrease and 3 other countries showed a modest increase during the same period.
Ireland's consumption continued to increase in 2000 and ranked 2nd after Luxembourg for alcohol consumption with a rate of 11 litres of pure alcohol per head of population. The EU average for 2000 was 9.1 litres of pure alcohol per capita.
While beer continues to dominate the alcohol market, although at a reduced share, the sales of wine and cider have seen substantial growth.
In 1996 there was a 10% increase in spirit sales in Ireland and similar increased growth has continued to the present.
The increase in spirits consumption is partly due to the new 'designer drinks' which are targeted at the young adult market and the popular party chasers such as 'vodka and red bull'.
Cider showed the most consistent growth rate over the last decade and had a market share of about 9% in 2000.

Drinking Patterns

Drinking patterns have been influenced by societal changes: changing lifestyles and expectations, more disposable income, the lessening of parental control on young people and a strong focus on consumerism has ensured a dynamic relationship between market place and consumer.

Underage Drinking: Over half of Ireland's young people begin experimenting with alcohol before the age of 12.
Adult Drinking: More females than males in the 18-24 age group were likely to engage in high risk drinking, both in terms of binge drinking and drinking over the recommended weekly upper limits.
Alcohol Related Problems: The adverse effects of alcohol extend beyond physical health issues to mental, social and financial problems.

Measures to tackle Alcohol Related Problems

What can be done?: The Health Promotion Unit, The Dept. of Health & Children is involved in a number of measures to help tackle alcohol related problems.

Next Page: Measures to Tackle Alcohol Related Problems