"This new research shows how the new norm is changing Irish drinking habits.''
A study conducted by Drinkaware has found that 52% of adults are now drinking alcohol on a weekly basis during Covid-19 lock down - up from 44% in 2019.
The study, which focused on the 30-day period up to April 24, also found that 25% of Irish adults are actually drinking more since the lockdown began - despite pubs being closed.
Conversely however, 25% of respondents also said that they are drinking less since the emergency measures came into place.
While 31% said they had made positive changes to their drinking habits during quarantine.
88% of all respondents said the primary reason behind their drinking was to "relax and unwind".
Sheena Horgan, CEO of Drinkaware, said that the study reinforces figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) that suggests alcohol consumption is up.
Horgan said: "This new research shows how the new norm is changing Irish drinking habits and attitudes. For some it’s a time to reflect and to change their alcohol consumption.
"For others, alcohol is a coping and stress relief at a difficult time. The use of alcohol to relax or unwind is not new but it is concerning, and at 88%, almost universal. As we enter the first phase of easing restrictions, we need to renew our efforts to explore alternative and healthier coping strategies that don’t involve consistent and potentially harmful drinking."
John O’Mahony, Director at B&A further noted: "The findings highlight the extent of the challenges faced by over-consumption in the home setting. An encouraging finding however is the proportion of people who have demonstrated a willingness to change behaviour."
