So as part of another thread, the issue that many in NZ have with drinking to excess became a focus. It deserves its own thread I think.
I'd encourage calm and rational reasoned discussion. It's bound to be a topic with some touchy and sensitive areas for some.
Is Drinking in NZ a serious issue do you think? Where do you think the Major blame for this lies? What do you think would help?
I am a big believer that the drinking age should never have been raised. As I mentioned in the other thread when 20-year-olds could drink, they would give alcohol to 17/18-year-olds, but when 18 years drink, they will give alcohol to 14/15-year-olds, which is much worse.
The decision making isn't as good in most people at 18 as it is at 20. I consider lowering the drinking age to 18 one of the worst pieces of legislation passed in my adult lifetime.
I'd also support either a zero tolerance drink driving limit (As in NO drinking and driving), but I also understand why many responsible drinkers would oppose this (as I am part of a sports club). Or a 1 Beer limit.