The need of the help of the PTAA has rarely been greater than in modern society. The Association’s validity and reliability have been tested over time and in many cultures and societies. The primary aim of the Association is the promotion of sobriety and temperance. Pioneers work towards achieving these aims through faith and prayer, self-denial leading to inner freedom; setting beneficial example to others; presenting alternatives to the drinking scene, particularly to the young.

Fr. Cullen was always concerned with social issues, and his motivation in setting up the Pioneers was to address the enormous damage that he saw excess alcohol was doing in the Ireland of his times. Many workers were heavy drinkers, and alcohol was the greatest drain on the weekly earnings of the family.