Public Hearings on the Liquor Bill [B23 – 2003] Presentation at the Public Hearings on the Liquor Bill [B23 – 2003] 13 May 2003

ARA APPLAUDS AND SUPPORTS Government’s efforts to introduce and implement: Fair and just liquor policy and legislation Harsher penalties for violation of relevant legislation continue

ENVIRONMENTAL REALITIES Overwhelming majority consume alcohol responsibly For those not at risk, moderate consumption is beneficial Established evidence of risk factors Tendency to confuse associative factors with causal ones

EFFECTIVE PREVENTION POLICIES MUST INCLUDE Prevention targeting those most at risk and vulnerable Adequately resourced law enforcement structures Support for education programmes

ARA PRIMARY ACTIVITIES Ensure responsible marketing: advertising, packaging, promotion and selling Promote, support and encourage educational efforts Contribute in development of alcohol policy Participate in dialogue with public health community and other stakeholders Promote alcohol related research Establish and maintain alcohol information resource base

Thank you