Shock over alcohol related death figures

Sep 25 2009 by Lisa Boyle

ALCOHOL related deaths in Ayrshire are almost double the UK average.

Figures released from the General Registry Office for Scotland show that the alcohol related death rate inthe NHS Ayrshire and Arran area is94 per cent higher that the UK average.

Local politicians have reacted with dismay at the figures.

John Scott MSP said: “These figures are undoubtedly shocking and they underline the scale of the problem being faced and he need to further develop strategies to deal with alcohol abuse and addiction locally.

“What is needed is a range of practical measures that educate, rehabilitate and when necessary strongly enforce, so that we can at last begin to get to grips with the deep-seated problems of alcohol abuse and social problems that it inflicts on local communities.”

Adam Ingram MSP added: “This is a clear demonstration of the scale of the problem we have to tackle and the unique situation Scotland is facing.

“We must take action now to avoid another generation of Scots dying through drink.”