Alcohol Abuse Costs NI £900m Per Annum

Alcohol abuse in Northern Ireland costs taxpayers £900m annually, according to charity Addiction NI.

A new report released by the charity in collaboration with substance abuse organisation FASA makes the claim, and also identifies a number of barriers that exist to accessing treatment services.

The report says the cost of alcohol-related harm equates to around one tenth of the entire block grant the NI Executive receives from Westminster, but estimates that less than a tenth of the in-need population are treated for their alcohol problems in Northern Ireland.

New figures from the Department of Health show more than 12,000 hospital admissions are made each year with alcohol-related diagnoses.

Health Minister Edwin Poots said: "Alcohol misuse is one of the biggest public health challenges we face – increasing people’s risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, liver disease and poor mental health. Many people are drinking at levels (more than 2-3 units per day for women and 3-4 units per day for men) which cause real harm without even realising it.

"The report launched today supports the approach set out in our strategy to reduce the harm related to substance misuse. It also helps us make the case for further investment in early intervention, treatment and support services. In addition, I hope the report will act as a catalyst for those working in the health service to recognise the impact alcohol misuse has and to use every opportunity to identify those with an issue and support them to overcome this."

Justice Minister, David Ford said: "Alcohol misuse has been estimated to cost the Criminal Justice system up to £340m and this report reflects the importance of responding together to reduce the harm that can be caused to individuals, families and communities."

(IT/MH)