This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Cheers! Don't ruin Hogmanay celebrations
31/12/2004
Party-goers were today reminded of the damage that drinking too much can cause as they prepare to celebrate Hogmanay.
Scotland's Chief Medical Officer Mac Armstrong said:
"New Year is a great time to go out and have fun with friends and family, to celebrate the end of another year.
"As with most parties, alcohol will play a part in the festivities and there's nothing wrong with that - as long as it's in moderation.
"The majority of us are able to drink safely and not overindulge but too many people, particularly at this time of year, get completely inebriated.
"Binge drinking can have serious side effects. At the time, it may give people a lift or a good feeling, but drink fuelled injuries, be it through an accident or a fight are all too common.
"Too much alcohol can also distract us from how cold it actually is. If anyone is attending an outdoor event this year, they should wrap up warm and plan in advance how they're getting home.
"There also is enough pressure on A&E departments at this time of year without having the extra load of treating injuries that are a direct result of too much alcohol.
"We can all enjoy Hogmanay without drinking to excess. I hope people do have fun with friends and enjoy their favourite tipple but being safe at the same time.
"Finally, one last important message - if you are going to have to drive this New Year - don't drink at all."
Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Service Reform Tavish Scott - who has responsibility for liquor licensing - added:
"We will introduce legislation early in the New Year which will protect young people, communities and responsible traders. The Bill will contribute towards improved health and breaking the link between excessive drinking and crime.
"The Licensing Bill will:
- outlaw nationally those irresponsible drinks promotions which can lead to binge drinking and violence
- tackle under-age drinking through no proof no sale approach
- tackle overprovision
- put in place a national licensing framework with standard national licence conditions
"Our current licensing system dates back to the 1970s - it does not reflect 21st Century Scottish society. That is why the Executive is bringing forward legislation to modernise our outdated licensing laws.
"We want to put in place a robust licensing system which will improve health and break the link between excessive drinking and crime. There is no doubt our record here makes grim reading:
- Nearly three-quarters of the assailants in violent crimes were reported to be under the influence of drink
- One third of prisoners said they would not be in prison if they had not been drinking
- Young people - aged between 16 and 24 - in Scotland drink more than any other age group
- The cost of alcohol misuse on the NHS in Scotland was £95.6 million and the total cost to Scottish society is estimated to be £1.1 billion
"Those shocking statistics illustrate exactly why doing nothing is simply not an option - alcohol-fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour is a real and visible problem across Scotland and must be tackled.
"We need a licensing system that contributes to a safer, stronger Scotland and ensures that modern Scotland has modern licensing laws.
"These laws will respond to changing habits and behaviours and support the alcohol industry from producer through to consumer."