asked the Minister for Health why he has not yet taken steps to prohibit the advertising of alcohol on RTE in the interest of public health, particularly of young people.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Alcohol Advertising.
70.
The question of prohibiting the advertising of alcohol on Irish television is a matter for decision by the RTE Authority.
A code of advertising standards for this country has been drawn up by the Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland. It includes a special section on the advertising of alcoholic beverages generally.
In addition, following discussion between officers of my Department and officials of the RTE Authority, the latter have drawn up a specific code for television advertising of alcoholic beverages. This particular code has been in operation for the past six months. The situation is being constantly kept under review and further improvements have been added by RTE since its inception. I may also add that discussions about the standard of advertising have also been held between officers of my Department and representatives of the Institute of Advertising Practitioners and of the brewing and distilling industry.
I might point out also that the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs has set up within the past year a complaints advisory committee with a function to investigate complaints regarding advertising on television.
I am, naturally, concerned with the increase in drinking, particularly among young people, and while I admit that advertising, including television advertising, may contribute to such increase, I consider that other factors, such as the general attitude to drink and the example given by parents and adults, play a far more important part in the education of young people on drinking.
Accordingly, my Department have over the past two years held many seminars and lectures for teachers, parents, and others in a position to influence the young. As the Deputy is aware, I have recently announced the setting up of a Health Education Bureau to continue and expand this work.