Vhi Healthcare today announced that claims paid for alcohol and substance abuse had increased by a staggering 50% in the last 4 years. Claims paid increased from €5.3 million in 2002 to €7.9 million in 2006.
Speaking at the CIPD Annual conference (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) in Kilkenny on the area of addiction in the workplace Dr Bernadette Carr, Medical Director Vhi Healthcare said "Alcohol and drug addiction are on the rise in Ireland and impacts all social classes and crosses the urban/ rural divide. In 2007, substance abuse and in particular Ireland's love affair with cocaine was catapulted into the spotlight. This has led to an increased awareness of the problem and more open discussion than in the past where there was a greater stigma attached to substance addiction. Employers need to support employees and help them resolve and get treatment for their addiction problems."
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