Our drinking age problem

Irish people now trying out alcohol at just 14

- NICOLA DONNELLY

THE age at which people are having their first alcoholic drink in Ireland is getting lower, research shows. 

Although it is illegal in Ireland to drink alcohol under the age of 18, many people start drinking as young as the early teens.

On average, people aged 34 and younger first tried alcohol at 14.8 years – more than two years earlier than those aged 50 plus.

For those aged 50 plus the average age for their first drink was 17 years.

Teenagers drink for many different reasons, including because they are curious, their friends are doing it and it makes them feel older.

Teenagers may also drink to feel more confident, reduce stress, cope with sadness, rejection or low self-esteem.

Now, officials say “timing is critical” and they are engaging with the public, particularly parents and guardians, to prevent alcohol harm and misuse among younger generations.

As a result of growing concern around the issues of alcohol use among teenagers, Drinkaware has launched a new resource for parents.