Submission on the alcohol in our lives discussion paper

Submission by the Families Commission to the Law Commission on the Discussion Paper Alcohol in Our Lives

The Families Commission welcomes the opportunity to comment on the discussion paper Alcohol in Our Lives.

This submission addresses those aspects of the discussion paper that are most relevant to families, particularly where the Families Commission has information on the views of families, or where we have had involvement with relevant research or policy developments.

Alcohol presents society with a dilemma. It is the drug of choice for most people, which is beneficial when used in moderation, and yet causes considerable harm when abused. Much of this harm is visited on families in one form or another. New Zealand has a tolerant attitude to alcohol, and society as a whole is overly accepting of alcohol abuse. We strongly endorse the need for change.