Vol. 534 No. 1
67 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the role played by alco hol companies in the promotion or sponsorship of sporting events; if he has had any discussions, or plans to have any discussions with sporting organisations regarding this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6608/01]
I have expressed my concerns on the issue of sport sponsorship and alcohol promotion and a number of actions have been taken which are relevant to this issue. The recently published Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport, published by the Irish Sports Council and Sports Council for Northern Ireland states "Sports leaders in children's sport should refrain from seeking sponsorship from the alcohol and tobacco industries." I have requested officials of my Department to consult the Sports Council with a view to progressing this recommendation.
In addition, an alcohol awareness campaign specifically aimed at young high-risk drinkers has just been launched. This campaign, Less is More – It's Your Choice, is in line with the national alcohol policy, published by my Department in 1996, and aims to create an awareness among young people of "high risk drinking" and in the long-term aims to reduce alcohol related problems associated with excessive drinking.
Question No. 68 answered with Question No. 62.
