By James Helm
BBC News correspondent in Dublin |
 Ireland's pub have a reputation for hard drinking |
The effects of drinking alcohol cost Ireland more than $3bn last year, according to a new report. The study, which set out proposals to deal with alcohol problems, says levels of "binge drinking" are higher in Ireland than other European nations.
On average, each adult in Ireland spent nearly $2,400 on alcohol last year.
In recent years however, government and health experts have encouraged drinkers to take a sober look at the harm caused by alcohol abuse.
Ireland has a reputation for its enjoyment of alcohol, and for what is known as its pub culture.
The Strategic Task Force on Alcohol, asked to look into the issue by the Irish government, estimates that the health effects of alcohol, drink-driving and alcohol-related crime cost Irish society more than $3bn in 2003.
The task force recommends a range of measures including higher taxes on drink, limiting the number of outlets selling alcohol, and reducing the exposure of children to alcohol advertising.
It says alcohol advertising portrays it as fun, glamorous and risk-free.
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