AS THE PARENT of teenage girls I am aware of the dangers of teenage drinking. However, as I journey through the minefield that is parenting teens, I am more and more convinced that the strength of my relationship with them is ultimately the only real control I have over my teens.

THE VINTNERS’ FEDERATION of Ireland has called this year one of the worst on record for its members. In a downbeat statement, the organisation accused the government of not appreciating the role publicans play and suppliers of not appreciating the business they give.

COALITION plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing have been thrown into doubt by the EU objecting to similar moves by the Scottish government. Health Minister James Reilly had hoped to bring in minimum pricing at the same time as the North, in an all-Ireland move intended to tackle binge-drinkin

The drinks’ companies and their ‘Drinkaware.ie’ rubbish might be a little credible if they sought not to distance themselves from the horrendous damage alcohol wreaks in Irish society.