Child Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018

Tuesday, 12 June 2018

Ceisteanna (1140, 1141)

Anne Rabbitte

Ceist:

1140. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on amendments made to section 22 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015 from a child protection perspective in view of he fact that the separation barrier must only be 1.2 metres in height, the average height of a seven year old according to recent UK research (details supplied); if she was consulted in the drafting of this legislation from a child protection perspective; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24624/18]

Anne Rabbitte

Ceist:

1141. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she is satisfied with section 22 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015 from a child protection perspective in view of the fact that children over seven years of age will continue to be exposed to alcohol in a supermarket setting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24625/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1140 and 1141 together.

A core principle underpinning child protection policy in Ireland is that all sectors have a responsibility to keep children safe from harm. In accordance with this, Government policy is that child protection concerns should be dealt with in the setting or sector in which they arise.

The Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015 is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Health, and, as the Deputy will be aware, this and any proposed legislation is circulated to Cabinet for consultation and approval before publication.

I understand that the Bill is progressing through the Houses of the Oireachtas. Section 22, as it currently stands, provides for restrictions on the display and advertisement of alcohol products in mixed trade retail outlets. While the safeguards proposed in the legislation place obligations on retailers, parental responsibility is also an important protective factor.