Alcohol sales and public health act
The Chair welcomes visitors, then Senator Buttimer follows Senator O’Mahony’s point by arguing that alcohol loss-leader advertising and low prices justify bringing the Minister to the House. Craughwell suggests a motion to secure a ministerial appearance.
A woman very close to me, otherwise called my wife, said it is like trying to get a greyhound to go slow. I am not very good at it.
I welcome to the House friends and neighbours of mine, Martin and Monica O'Mahony, from Kilcoe, west Cork. To my eternal regret, Martin was one of the people who first enticed me into politics in 1985 and I will never forgive him for it.
His good wife, Monica, worked with my wife for many years. They are very welcome. I think it is their first visit to the Chamber. All the other guests are also very welcome. I have to acknowledge my neighbours.
Comment on this
I forgot to mention Senator O'Mahony's reference to the Public Health (Alcohol) Act. My information is that the issue is linked to the Scottish decision, which I think has been approved by the European Union. I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House. The Senator has raised a very important matter on the issue of the sale of alcohol.
Comment on this
Senator O'Mahony has been very vigilant on this. The newspaper advertisements indicate that alcohol is being sold as a loss leader to encourage people to buy alcohol. The price of spirits is quite stark. I will have the Minister come to the House as soon as possible and I apologise to the Senator.
Comment on this
We can surely move something to have the Minister in.