5 Jan 2004

Vanuatu home brew problematic

3:10 pm on 5 January 2004

Home Brew is becoming a growing problem in the Vanuatu province of Penama.

The Secretary-General for the province, Augustine Garae, told the Daily Post that the situation is escalating to a stage where authorities must take urgent steps to curb the problem.

Mr Garae says drinking home brew and pure alcohol drinks during important days such as Christmas is getting popular in the province.

Mr Garae has urged community leaders to address the issue, especially with young people.

He says part of the blame could be placed on the downturn in the country.

Mr Garae says the poor economy makes it difficult for people to gain a regular income.

He also says the government's high duty on non-essential items such as alcoholic beverages.