Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2013
1140. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the extent of communication that has taken place between his Department and the drinks industry in relation to taking positive action to address alcohol misuse and to discuss the issues surrounding sponsorship and advertising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16179/13]
View answerEngagement of the nature asked by the Deputy has largely been in the context of the National Substance Misuse Strategy given its recommendations on sponsorship and advertising of alcohol. These communications have been both oral and written. In addition, an official from my Department is a member of the Alcohol Marketing Communications Monitoring Body (AMCMB). This body monitors adherence and compliance with voluntary codes of practice on the placement of alcohol advertising, and the drinks industry has one representative on this body.
I wish to also advise the Deputy that real and tangible proposals are now being finalised on the basis of the National Substance Misuse Strategy recommendations and I expect to submit them as soon as possible to the Government for consideration and approval.
