Alcohol consumption among Irish adults decreased by 4.5% last year, continuing a long-term decline observed over the past 25 years, according to a new report, reports RTE.
The report, commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI), reveals that the average alcohol intake per adult dropped to 9.49 litres of pure alcohol, representing a decrease of over one-third (34.3%) since 2001.
DIGI attributed the decline to an increasing trend of Irish people drinking alcohol in moderation, reports RTE.
Beer remains the most popular alcoholic drink in Ireland, holding over 43% of the market share, followed by wine at 28%. Meanwhile, the consumption of spirits decreased to 22%, and cider consumption fell to 6%.
This report aligns with recent data showing that alcohol consumption in Ireland is now on par with the European average. According to OECD data from 2022, Ireland’s alcohol consumption ranks below that of France, Spain, Austria, and several other countries, reports RTE.
A separate Health Research Board report from last year also found that Ireland’s alcohol consumption is at average levels when compared to EU and OECD standards.
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Donall O’Keefe, Secretary of DIGI and CEO of The Licensed Vintners Association, commented, “Today’s figures clearly demonstrate what many of us already know – Irish people are drinking more moderately, continuing a downward trend since the turn of the century,” reports RTE.
He added, “In contrast to the negative stereotypes once associated with drinking, alcohol consumption in Ireland has now reached average European levels, with the purchase of non-alcoholic beverages also on the rise.”
O’Keefe raised the question of why Ireland still has the second-highest excise rates on alcohol in Europe, considering the country’s consumption is now in line with the European average. “Given that we now consume alcohol at average European levels, it makes sense that we should also pay excise at European levels,” he said, reports RTE.
He also noted the struggles of small rural pubs and restaurants, many of which are facing financial difficulties due to rising business costs. O’Keefe argued that reducing excise rates would provide these businesses with a better chance of survival and continue their role as key community hubs and attractions for tourism.
“DIGI will be advocating for a 10% reduction in excise in this year’s Budget as a necessary measure to help these businesses survive,” O’Keefe stated, reports RTE.
The DIGI report was compiled by Anthony Foley, Associate Professor Emeritus at Dublin City University, using data from the CSO population and migration estimates for April 2024, as well as alcohol clearance data from the Revenue Commissioners, reports RTE.
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