I wish to raise the issue of alcohol and alcohol abuse and commend the very focused addressing of these matters by the former Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Róisín Shortall. We are advised that publication of the public health (alcohol) Bill is expected next year and the sale of alcohol bill, under the Department of Justice and Equality, is promised for this session. Is there any effort being employed or is anyone taking up this issue, either within the Department of Health, the Department of Justice and Equality or at Cabinet, to pursue with the same serious intent and vigour, the addressing of these most important matters and the expediting of legislation for these Houses? I ask the Tánaiste to give us some sense that this matter remains a critical focus for this Government.

Yes, it very much does and both the Minister for Justice and Equality and the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Alex White, are progressing proposals in respect of the responsibilities of their Departments in this area. I expect the sale of alcohol Bill, to which the Deputy referred, to be published early in the new year.