ABSTRACT
The evidence in favour of the establishment of an Inebriate Asylum, for the treatment of habitual drunkards and dipsomauiacs, is irresistibly strong. We have documentary proof, in the form of official reports, showing that the necessity of such institutions has been recognised and acted upon in England, France, the United States, and elsewhere, with marked success. The oral evidence taken by the Commission confirms the opinion that at least one such institution is required in this colony. In the Report from the Select Committee of the House of Commons on Habitual Drunkards, printed in 1872, the Committee say:—“That there is entire concurrence of all the witnesses in the absolute inadequacy of existing laws to check drunkenness, whether casual or constant, rendering it desirable that fresh legislation on the subject should take place, and that the laws should be made more simple, uniform, and stringent.” Abundant proof was given before this Committee that fines and imprisonments had proved useless in repressing this vice, inasmuch as the same individuals had been punished over and over again, “even more than 100 times,” for excessive indulgence in strong drink. Mainly on the recommendations made by this Committee, the “Habitual Drunkards Act of 1879” came into existence, and the Report of the Inspector of the Retreats (for 1884) established under the Act is very encouraging, remembering the short time these institutions have been in existence.
