New research reveals that 80% of doctors cannot access out-patient detox services for alcoholics.

The study from the Liver Centre at the Mater Hospital also found that only 5% of medics are able to refer patients directly to psychological services.

A seperate study carried out by St. Vincent's Hospital in Dublin shows that 14,000 people were admitted for the treatment of alcohol dependence in 2011.

Professor Aiden McCormick from St. Vincent's hospital in Dublin told Newstalk Breakfast there is a gap between hospitals and alcohol treatment services in the community.