Incidents of alcohol-related risk and injury continue to plague communities across the province according to a panel hearing held yesterday at the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities conference. The Chronicle-Herald reports that municipalities are being urged to take a stronger hand to reduce the negative outcomes of overconsumption — particularly among youth.

Some disturbing examples of alcohol abuse cited in the article include teens at a Bridgewater school dance who used alcohol-soaked tampons inserted rectally to get drunk, eliminating the tell-tale smell of booze on them at the school dance. And, of course the tragic incident back in September of a first-year Acadia University student who died of alcohol poisoning on campus during frosh week. 

In the article, chief public health officer Dr. Robert Strang questions whether alcohol promoters should be allowed to sponsor municipal events, such as the Natal Day celebrations in Halifax (sponsored by a local brewery), given that teens are susceptible to marketing from alcohol companies. 

We'd like to hear your input Haligonia: What do you think drives the "culture of consumption" referenced in the article and what can our policy-makers and community members do to help reduce alcohol-related risk and injury in the province? 

Full article here: http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/28891-booze-problems-need-urgent-action-ns-municipal-conference-hears