Diageo is stepping down from the board of anti-alcohol abuse group, ‘Stop Out of Control Drinking’, following controversy about the drinks company’s role in it.
David Smith, country director, made the announcement today on RTE Radio One show, Today with Seán O’Rourke.
The campaign had been criticised for Diageo’s direct involvement with an open letter signed by TD Róisín Shortall, as well as celebrities Des Bishop and Christy Moore.
Amongst other setbacks, the board has also seen the resignation of members, Dr Ciara Kelly, psychologist Krystian Fikert of MyMind and St Patrick’s Mental Health Services.
Smith explained that the decision was taken to “make sure that any question about the lack of independence is being removed”.
However, he clarified that the decision will not change Diageo’s funding of the campaign, adding that most of the money has already been spent and that funds would be available until the publication of the group’s report due in six weeks.
He also stated that, “I’m glad we got involved in the campaign. I may not have sat on the board if I’d known it was going to cause so much controversy.”
“As we step away, I wish the board luck and good luck to anything going on in Ireland to tackle alcohol misuse. It is really important for the country.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
