Public health alcohol legislation
Joe O’Reilly asked about the public health alcohol Bill and the impact of changing consumption patterns; the Taoiseach said advertising, sponsorship and minimum pricing measures were being developed.
What is the progress of the public health (alcohol) Bill? We have a changing pattern of alcohol consumption bringing particular challenges in health and social life. The traditional Irish pub, which is so important for our tourism product and social life, is under threat.
Comment on this
A great deal of work is being done on it. Measures on aspects such as advertising and minimum unit pricing will be dealt with by regulation. Sponsorship, marketing and advertising are receiving much attention and we discussed the issues on Monday at a Cabinet sub-committee. We will make a decision on that element of it in the near future.