Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
672. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health the rationale for the selection of a 1.2 metres separating barrier contained under section 22 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015; if this was developed using scientific best practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24622/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra673. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health his views on the reason a 1.2 metres separating barrier contained under section 22 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015 will reduce the visibility of alcohol to children in view of the fact that the height of the barrier equates to the height of a seven year old according to recent UK statistics (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24623/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 672 and 673 together.
Section 22 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill introduces a statutory framework for the separation and visibility of alcohol products and advertising in mixed retail outlets and is designed to address the relationship between alcohol and children by reducing the likelihood that they will be exposed to alcohol products and advertising in their daily lives.
As drafted, the Bill required that alcohol products were not "readily visible" in mixed retail outlets. This formulation led to some uncertainty so on that basis, I provided for a specific height for the required barrier of a minimum of 1.2 metres. In proposing that minimum height, I recognised the concern that a higher barrier might expose retailers to non-compliance with certain requirements, such as those related to planning or fire safety legislation.
The presence of a physical barrier will ensure there is a marked separation of alcohol products from other ordinary products in a mixed-retail outlet and the minimum height is such to ensure reduced visibility of alcohol products for young children.
