25-3-2024 (BANGKOK) A coalition of anti-drink driving groups urged the ruling Pheu Thai Party on Monday to support all proposed legislative bills aimed at amending laws governing alcoholic beverages in the first reading, ensuring thorough debates in the House of Representatives.
Approximately 60 representatives from the network gathered at the Pheu Thai headquarters to advocate their cause, amid reports that proposed amendments to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Act would undergo scrutiny by the House on Wednesday.
Three amendments, endorsed by civil society groups and the primary opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), have been submitted to the House. Additionally, two more bills, backed by the Pheu Thai Party and the Public Health Ministry, were anticipated to be introduced.
The representatives appealed to Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra to persuade Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to strike a balance between economic needs and public health. This plea follows the government’s decision to extend alcohol sales hours to boost tourism and spending.
Ratchthirat Soonsan, the wife of a drunk-driving victim, directed her plea to the Pheu Thai leader, emphasizing Ms Paetongtarn’s potential understanding of her pain as a wife and mother. She cautioned against repeating mistakes from the cannabis liberalisation policy, which led to recreational drug abuse and health issues.
Thirapat Khahawong, a network coordinator, highlighted the existing alcohol laws’ adherence to World Health Organization guidelines, including measures to mitigate alcohol’s adverse effects. He stressed the importance of considering all proposed amendments in the first reading to ensure comprehensive deliberation.
Moreover, Khahawong advocated for amendments that prioritize public health, suggesting strict penalties for offenders and the establishment of a fund to aid those affected by alcohol consumption.
Jetsada Yaemsabai, chairman of the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, underscored the severe repercussions of alcohol consumption compared to substances like tobacco and methamphetamine. While acknowledging the need to review the alcohol control law after 16 years, he emphasized the importance of caution, urging against amendments that relax controls without adequate preventive measures.
