Sports Events

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2015

Tuesday, 3 March 2015

Ceisteanna (614)

Dominic Hannigan

Ceist:

614. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a ban on alcohol sponsorship for sporting events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9052/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

I support the proposals recently approved by Government to reduce alcohol consumption and tackle alcohol misuse. The proposals are outlined in the Heads of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill, published by the Minister for Health on 3 February. They include measures relating to pricing, availability, information and marketing of alcohol.

I had previously expressed concerns that a ban on sponsorship of sporting events by the alcohol industry would have negative impacts on the development and availability of sport and consequently on our efforts to maintain and increase sporting participation at local level.   

The Bill does not propose a ban on alcohol sponsorship of sporting events. It provides for the making of regulations governing such sponsorship.  I am happy to support this amended proposal.