Festive drinking

Published 8 Dec 2009 09:00

AS we enter the festive season we all tend to drink just a bit more than usual.

For many it does not cause a problem, however, for a significant number of people drinking and alcohol abuse has a disastrous effect on their health and lives.

West Dunbartonshire has some of the highest levels of alcohol related illnesses and deaths in the UK and also some of the highest levels of domestic violence.

Currently we are in the middle of the annual White Ribbon campaign, starting on November 25 and ending on December 10, it aims to eliminate violence against women and in particular the effects of domestic violence and the effect on children and families.

Whilst there are many complex issues involved, there is no doubt that drinking and alcohol abuse play a major part in this problem which blights our communities.

I find it incomprehensible that when the overwhelming majority of experts in the medical profession, police and social care professions agree that minimum pricing of alcohol has a key role to play in fighting this problem that Labour politicians seek to oppose the SNP Government proposals.

It is time to stop selling alcohol at pocket money levels, and it is time for these politicians to see sense and put an end to this blight on our communities.

Over this festive season I would urge everyone to take a long hard look at their drinking habits and consider the terrible consequences which over indulging can bring.

Making our streets safer is a top priority, particularly at this time of the year when many of us will be out enjoying a work night out or a party night.

To help ensure that people can go out and enjoy themselves safely on our streets the SNP Scottish Government has provided extra money again this year to fund a range of safety initiatives across, Dumbarton, Alexandria, Balloch and Clydebank.

Under the banner of NightZone West, the campaign will highlight the dangers and consequences of binge drinking and will encourage people to enjoy themselves safely and responsibly.

During the peak times on Friday and Saturday nights taxi marshals will be on duty to ensure a safe and orderly end to your night out.

The police will also be playing an active part in making the streets safer with extra high visibility patrols in "hot spot" areas throughout NightZone West.

With the assistance of pub and club owners and the taxi trade, plus a range of radio adverts, posters and beer mats, the aim is to promote the safety message across the whole of West Dunbartonshire.

Raising awareness of the dangers of binge drinking, particularly targeted at our young people, is another important element of the NightZone campaign.

Promoting alcohol-free events for the young people is yet another way in which this extra funding will be spent.

Everyone can play a part in making this a safe festive season by taking a responsible approach to alcohol.

Do not let drink spoil Christmas.

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This article appeared in Dumbarton & Vale of Leven Reporter 08 Dec 09

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