New Alcohol Programme introduced
The government’s ‘Alcohol Programme 2004-2007. Starting points for cooperation in 2004’ was launched 27 April as a new strategy designed to increase preventive work to limit the harm caused by alcohol abuse.
The publication containing the programme assesses the present status of cooperation to prevent alcohol problems. The programme is based on a government principle decision to address the main negative trends in alcohol use and consumption.
The programme seeks to diminish the harmful impact of alcohol use on child and family welfare and to tackle the problems associated with over drinking. Both people’s drinking habits and the overall levels of consumption influence the harm caused by alcohol, and the programme targets both.
It aims to create a strong base of cooperation throughout society to moderate alcohol use. The planning and implementation of the programme involves a wide range of actors, including municipal authorities, the churches, NGO, health and social sector professionals and the restaurant trade.
The programme will be under continual assessment to check its results and revise its action plans. The MSAH will present an interim evaluation of the results of the programme to parliament in spring 2006.