John Lyons
Question:375. Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the introduction of the national alcohol strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21106/13]
View answerTuesday, 7 May 2013
Questions (375)
Written answers
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that real and tangible proposals are currently being finalised on foot of the recommendations in the National Substance Misuse Strategy report. These proposals cover all of the areas mentioned in the report, including minimum unit pricing, advertising of alcohol, and the structural separation of alcohol from other products in mixed trading outlets. As part of the process of developing these proposals, the Department is continuing discussions with various Departments.
The Cabinet Committee on Social Policy has considered these proposals and I intend to bring forward specific proposals for consideration by Government as soon as possible.
In the meantime, work on developing a framework for the necessary Department of Health legislation is continuing. For example, in conjunction with Northern Ireland, a health impact assessment is being commissioned as part of the process of developing a legislative basis for minimum unit pricing. (Scotland commissioned a similar assessment before drafting its legislation on minimum unit pricing.) The health impact assessment will study the impact of different minimum prices on a range of areas such as health, crime and likely economic impact.