09/09/2008
Warnings On Alcohol To Ward Off Pregnant Mothers
An Irish MEP has urged the government to put warnings on alcoholic drinks to discourage pregnant mothers from drinking.
Ireland East MEP Mairead McGuinness is taking part in a special seminar on the issue on Tuesday, in the European Parliament in Brussels.
According to the MEP, over 354 babies are born each year in Ireland with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, while foetal alcohol exposure is the leading known cause of mental retardation in the Western world, and is linked to cognitive and functional disabilities, including poor memory, attention deficits, impulsive behavior, and poor reasoning.
Last week, Ms McGuinness released a leaflet detailing the possible affects of drinking during pregnancy. The MEP stressed there is "no safe" amount of alcohol which a pregnant woman can consume without putting her baby at risk.
"The evidence is clear - alcohol in pregnancy is a lethal cocktail for the unborn child and can lead to developmental, behavioural and learning difficulties in school and later in life," she said.
The European Minister added: "Alcohol goes directly to the developing baby and is more toxic to the foetus than nicotine or any other so-called recreational drugs. Yet GP's are more likely to ask mums-to-be about smoking, than their drinking habits."
(DW/JM)
Ireland East MEP Mairead McGuinness is taking part in a special seminar on the issue on Tuesday, in the European Parliament in Brussels.
According to the MEP, over 354 babies are born each year in Ireland with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, while foetal alcohol exposure is the leading known cause of mental retardation in the Western world, and is linked to cognitive and functional disabilities, including poor memory, attention deficits, impulsive behavior, and poor reasoning.
Last week, Ms McGuinness released a leaflet detailing the possible affects of drinking during pregnancy. The MEP stressed there is "no safe" amount of alcohol which a pregnant woman can consume without putting her baby at risk.
"The evidence is clear - alcohol in pregnancy is a lethal cocktail for the unborn child and can lead to developmental, behavioural and learning difficulties in school and later in life," she said.
The European Minister added: "Alcohol goes directly to the developing baby and is more toxic to the foetus than nicotine or any other so-called recreational drugs. Yet GP's are more likely to ask mums-to-be about smoking, than their drinking habits."
(DW/JM)
Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
23 July 2024
Entertainment Meets Betting: Top Ireland Casino Games To Play In 2024
Ireland has always been known for its vibrant culture, and now, it's also becoming a hotspot for exhilarating casino games. In 2024, players will have many options to keep them entertained, from online casinos to Belfast's best game and entertainment centres.
Entertainment Meets Betting: Top Ireland Casino Games To Play In 2024
Ireland has always been known for its vibrant culture, and now, it's also becoming a hotspot for exhilarating casino games. In 2024, players will have many options to keep them entertained, from online casinos to Belfast's best game and entertainment centres.
19 July 2024
How To Get Recommendations For Your Business In Northern Ireland
Would you trust a business, or recommendations from friends and family more? All companies have a vested interest, as they are trying to sell a product. Customers know this. Thus, the best form of marketing is word of mouth, but that is not easy to get. Below, we discuss how you can find recommendations for your business in Northern Ireland.
How To Get Recommendations For Your Business In Northern Ireland
Would you trust a business, or recommendations from friends and family more? All companies have a vested interest, as they are trying to sell a product. Customers know this. Thus, the best form of marketing is word of mouth, but that is not easy to get. Below, we discuss how you can find recommendations for your business in Northern Ireland.
05 January 2018
New Alcohol Legislation To Benefit Those 'On A Health Kick'
New alcohol legislation progressing through the Dáil will, for the first time, ensure that alcohol products will be labelled to show the calorie content.
New Alcohol Legislation To Benefit Those 'On A Health Kick'
New alcohol legislation progressing through the Dáil will, for the first time, ensure that alcohol products will be labelled to show the calorie content.