In recent times we have seen a number of cases where powerful vested interests have tried to stand in the way of us tackling the problems related to our national drug of choice, namely, alcohol. In that regard, could I ask the Minister where stands the legislation on two items, first, the sale of alcohol Bill and, second, the public health (alcohol) Bill?

I share the Deputy’s concern. I am told that proposals are being worked on by both the Departments of Justice and Equality and Health at the moment because both Departments are involved and that we should have proposals before the end of the year on both of those pieces of legislation.