asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the increase in the volume of alcohol sales in supermarkets, he will consider the introduction of statutory regulations concerning employment of staff in charge of such sales, open floor display of alcoholic drink and public notices concerning such sales to under-aged persons.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supermarket Alcohol Sales.
24.
I presume what the Deputy is basically concerned about is drinking by young people.
In reply to a Parliamentary Question on this subject on 23rd May, 1973, I indicated that alcoholism and related problems, including drinking by young persons, are receiving very close attention and that the report recently made to the Minister for Health by the Irish National Council on Alcoholism is being studied at present in several Departments, including mine. I propose to wait until the report has been fully considered before deciding whether to recommend any changes in the relevant legislation.
When will the Minister be in a position to make a statement on that report?
I am afraid I could not answer that. The matters are rather complex and a number of different elements enter in. If the Deputy requires information perhaps he would put down another question to the Minister.
Has the Minister had any discussions with any other Ministers in the Government about this question?
I am not aware whether the Minister on behalf of whom I am replying has or has not had such consultations.
Would he say specifically whether the Minister for Justice had any consultations with the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs with a view to having alcohol advertising banned on TV as a result of the report?
I shall pass on the Deputy's inquiry to the Minister for Justice.
You will agree, a Cheann Comhairle, it is very difficult for Deputies when the stand-in Minister has not studied his brief.
Any question I have been asked which arises directly from the question put I have answered.