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Countdown to Alcohol Awareness Week
19/09/2007
The countdown has begun to Scotland's first ever Alcohol Awareness Week next month.
Public Health Minister Shona Robison joined players from the international rugby team to publicise the event and help people understand their own drinking habits and whether their consumption is compatible with a healthy lifestyle.
The awareness week is an initiative by the Scottish Government, alcohol industry, health services, voluntary sector and an array of supporters, including Scottish Rugby.
Ms Robison said:
"We know that most Scots drink responsibly but also that alcohol related health harm is on the increase. It can be difficult to know how much you are drinking when drinks can vary so much in size and strength.
"It is important that we all get to know the units in our drinks so we can make informed choices and take responsibility for our own consumption. That is why the Scottish Government, the alcohol industry, health professionals and the voluntary sector have come together to organise Scotland's first ever Alcohol Awareness Week.
"Across the country, organisations are joining in with the Alcohol Awareness Week campaign, understanding that they have a part to play in promoting a Scotland where responsible, moderate consumption and seen as compatible with a healthy lifestyle."
Scottish international scrum half Mike Blair said:
"We support responsible drinking and initiatives like Scotland's first ever National Alcohol Awareness Week.
"We hope this week-long initiative will help Scots find out about alcohol units and how to enjoy a drink without risking their health, which can only be a good thing.
"Last night, alcohol was sold at a Scotland international match in Murrayfield Stadium for the first time in a quarter of a century and many of our supporters probably enjoyed a drink during the match. The message to supporters is that alcohol can be enjoyed in a responsible way."