Man calls for action on alcohol abuse

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 21 April 2017, 12:00AM

Samoa needs to revisit alcohol laws.

So says Motu Taula of Alafua who is concerned about the rising number of alcohol-related deaths in the country.

The 26-year-old said he is especially concerned about the fact that literally every week there is always an incident connected to the abuse of alcohol.

 “The biggest challenge we face in Samoa is alcohol,” he said.

 “I personally urge the government to address this issue seriously.”

 Motu blames the availability of cheap alcohol for the terrible rise in crimes. 

“This is one of the main reasons. We’ve got so much cheap alcohol in the country.”

Motu said he doesn’t drink.

But he is worried too many young people are getting into the habit.

 “We need to concentrate on this issue because I am 100% sure alcohol is the cause of crimes in Samoa and this is such a big problem. 

 “There must be a government ministry that deals with these products.

 “Family violence is mostly the result of alcohol abuse. In some case, people commit suicide when they drink too much. 

“If you look around town, you will see teenagers with bottles of beer. It’s not a good look.”

Motu believes the government should do something about it. 

“We are talking about our people here, and I want the government to play their role.

“It’s better to increase the price of alcohol to discourage young people from buying it. We can’t just sit around and watch our brothers and sisters suffer because of alcohol.” 

“We need to stay alert and awake at all times. We need to work together to create a safer environment for our people and ourselves.”

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 21 April 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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