The Minister with responsibility for substance abuse has said the introduction of a minimum price for alcohol is just one of a number of measures being considered to tackle alcohol misuse in Ireland.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Minister for State with responsibility for Primary Care Roisin Shorthall conceded, however, that dearer alcohol would not single-handedly reduce the problem of alcohol abuse and underage drinking.
She said: "Alcohol is available at an all-time low price and that causes or contributes to problems associated with drinking, particularly with younger people but also with people who are problem drinkers."
She also said drinking was a cultural problem that needed to be tackled holistically.
In October 2011, Ms Shortall spoke at a seminar in Dublin on the impact on children of parental drug and alcohol misuse.
Alcohol Action Ireland, one of the co-organisers of the event, said that roughly one in 11 children are living with parents who have drink problems.
AAI said more information is needed about the numbers misusing alcohol so help can be provided.
Research presented at the event showed children of parents with alcohol and drug addictions are more likely to experience problems with mental health and social skills.
Delegates heard these problems can continue in adult life and affect their own children.
It is estimated that alcohol abuse costs the State €3.7bn per year through illness, absenteeism and crime.
