A Call to Action: Government Must Lead on FASD – A Hidden Epidemic Costing Ireland Billions
FASD Ireland, the Ennis based national organisation supporting people living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, their families/caregivers and supportive professionals, has today issued a compelling Pre-Budget Submission for 2026, urging the Government to take decisive, strategic action on Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)—a neurodevelopmental condition affecting up to 7.4% of the Irish population and costing the economy an estimated €4.6 billion annually.
Despite its prevalence, FASD remains under-recognised, misdiagnosed, and unsupported.
The submission outlines five key recommendations that can be fully funded through a proposed Alcohol Related Harm Fund—ensuring no additional strain on the Exchequer.
Key Asks:
- A Whole-of-Government Strategy to formally recognise FASD as a neurodevelopmental disability and embed it in national policy.
- A National Prevalence Study led by the University of Galway to provide Ireland’s first accurate data on FASD.
- FASD Aware Schools Programme to educate Transition Year students on prevention and inclusion.
- Ring-Fenced Alcohol Harm Reduction Fund—a 1–2% levy on alcohol sales to sustainably fund FASD services.
- Strategic Investment to address the economic impact across education, health, and justice.
A National Strategy on FASD would be transformative—ensuring no child, adult, or family affected by this preventable condition is left behind.
The submission highlights international best practice, including Australia’s National FASD Strategic Action Plan and New Zealand’s alcohol levy model—both demonstrating the power of coordinated leadership and sustainable funding.
A Strong Call to Action:
FASD Ireland calls on all elected representatives to champion this cause. By investing in early intervention, education, and prevention, Ireland can reduce long-term costs, improve outcomes, and uphold its commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Let Budget 2026 be the moment Ireland steps up.
- No more delay.
- No more denial.
- It’s time for action.
The pre-budget submission can be read online at https://fasdireland.ie/key-documents