355. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Health when he will introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol sales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47255/19]

The 2013 Government Decision which approved a minimum pricing regime envisaged its introduction in Northern Ireland and in this jurisdiction simultaneously. It is my intention to seek a revised Government Decision so that minimum unit pricing can be implemented as soon as possible in order to address the very significant health harms and financial costs of the way alcohol is currently consumed here.