asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of, and in a position to remedy, the situation that now exists in most licensed premises, which is in conflict with the campaign by the Department of Health to reduce alcohol consumption, whereby a pint of beer or stout and a half glass of spirits is now cheaper than a pint of lemonade or orange; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Alcohol Consumption.
12.
I am aware that discontent has been expressed in certain quarters at the price of soft drinks for on-premises consumption in licensed premises. The National Prices Commission have had under consideration for some time the question of the control of soft drink prices at the retail level. They have made certain recommendations to me in the matter and these are under consideration.
Is it proposed to tackle the problem today?
Is it reasonable to assume that that situation will not arise after this afternoon and that that discrepancy or difference in price will not exist?