Advertisement
Ireland's 'Exceptionally Affor...

News

Ireland's 'Exceptionally Affordable Alcohol' Is Leading To Harmful Use

Laura Donnelly
Laura Donnelly

12:52 17 Aug 2021


Share this article


A man can drink his low-risk limit of alcohol for under €8 a week, while a woman can do so for less than €5.

Alcohol Action Ireland says it's latest off-licence pricing survey shows "exceptionally affordable alcohol" is present in every community in the country.

The advocacy group says the survey highlights the importance of minimum unit pricing, which's set to be introduced in January.

According to this annual survey of off licenses conducted by Alcohol Action Ireland, consumers can spend as little as 45 cent for a standard drink of cider or 63 cent for a unit of vodka in shops.

The low prices were generally found among so-called knock off products, which are often popular among young people.

Head of Advocacy with the group Eunan McKinney says when prices rise next year, it will make a huge difference: "The affordability of alcohol from off-trade businesses, across a retail landscape dominated by a handful of major players, continues to sustain Ireland’s harmful use of alcohol.

"Whether drinkers are seeking the greatest purchasing power in discount supermarkets from Thurles to Terenure, or convenient stores from Waterville to Walkinstown, our survey highlights that exceptionally affordable alcohol is ever-present in every community across Ireland.

"With a minimum pricing regime to be introduced for 2022, it is evident that the alcohol producers and retailers are already shifting their marketing strategies to ensure retention of key price points. What this may result in is lesser multi-unit packs and perhaps a greater prevalence of smaller volume units such as 440 ml cans or 500ml spirits products."

Follow @98FM on Twitter for the latest Dublin news


Share this article


You might like