Departmental Advertising.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 July 2004

Wednesday, 7 July 2004

Ceisteanna (219)

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

215 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the plans he has to work with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department of Health and Children to develop a joint initiative in relation to an advertising campaign or a co-ordinator of legislation in relation to the issue of under age drinking, particularly in view of the recent announcement by GAA task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20753/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

I have noted the recommendations of the GAA task force on alcohol and substance abuse and I am pleased that the report has received a broad welcome. The promotion by all national sporting organisations of alcohol-free sporting environments for young people is in keeping with the provisions of the Irish Sports Council's code of ethics and good practice for children's sport in Ireland.

I will be happy to co-operate with my colleagues the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Minister for Health and Children on initiatives related to the issue of under-age drinking.