Jackie Baillie has urged action on poverty and inequality to tackle alcohol deaths in more deprived areas.

Figures released by Public Health Scotland last week found rates of alcohol-specific deaths to be five times higher in Scotland’s poorest communities, including West Dunbartonshire.

Incidences of alcohol-related hospitalisations were found to be as much as eight times higher in areas of deprivation compared to more affluent communities.

The Dumbarton constituency MSP said: “It is concerning that these figures are showing a stark difference between deprived areas and more affluent communities.

“Unfortunately, West Dunbartonshire suffers from too high levels of poverty and inequality meaning that life expectancy is lower.

“Alcohol related deaths are preventable and the SNP must wake up to the fact that there are glaring health and addiction inequalities which are costing people their lives, leaving families heartbroken.

“The Scottish Government need to put a proper action plan in place to tackle these issues before more lives are lost.”