Dóthain is a movement launched in Castlebar that hopes to change attitudes to alcohol in Ireland.
Named after the Irish word for 'enough', Dóthain was founded in Castlebar by Dr Michael Loftus, whose work as the coroner for north Mayo made him acutely aware of the health issues caused by alcohol abuse. A conference in Castlebar was told six million pounds is spent on alcohol in Ireland every day.
Speaking at the launch of Dóthain in Davitt College, Sister Attracta Canny of Hope House, Foxford, spoke of the devastation alcohol causes in young people.
Nineteen year olds who are in the chronic stages of addiction.
Government statistics on road traffic deaths, mental health problems, homicides, and physical and sexual abuse show the impact of over consumption of alcohol in Irish society. We are all familiar with these facts, says Dr Loftus,
I quote nothing that isn't official from the records.
Dóthain aims to create an awareness of the harmful effects of overindulging in alcohol, and
Change our attitude towards that drinking culture.
Bishop Thomas Finnegan of Killala hopes that Dóthain will provide a focal point for diverse groups locally and then nationally.
We think that we will succeed in mobilising public opinon.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 4 December 1994. The reporter is Jim Fahy.
