Reform of alcohol licensing laws: a problem needing a solution or an opportunity to create different drinking occasions and further normalise alcohol use.

Reform of alcohol licensing laws: a problem needing a solution or an opportunity to create different drinking occasions and further normalise alcohol use.

Imagine a world where you can grab a drink well into the early hours of the morning. Sounds fun, right? But what if that convenience comes at a cost to public health and safety? In this episode of 'The Alcohol File', Dr. Helen McAvoy, Director of Policy at the Institute for Public Health in Ireland, and Prof. Niamh Fitzgerald from the University of Stirling, dive into the complexities of the proposed 'Sale of Alcohol Bill'.

They explore whether extending alcohol availability really addresses societal issues or simply pads the pockets of alcohol producers and retailers. The discussion zeroes in on the potential consequences of licensing reform, such as increased public safety risks and the normalization of late-night drinking. Dr. McAvoy emphasizes the importance of policy coherence and health impact assessments to mitigate harms.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how policy changes could reshape our relationship with alcohol and what it means for public health.