Alcohol Pricing

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2021

Thursday, 6 May 2021

Ceisteanna (205)

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

205. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if further plans are being considered in regard to the introduction of minimum unit pricing of alcohol products in view of the announcement in Northern Ireland that it is not in a position to proceed with coinciding the implementation at this time given the very serious impact this may have on businesses in the Border counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23453/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

On 4 May the Government agreed to revise the standing 2013 Decision and to allow for the introduction of minimum unit pricing here without its simultaneous introduction in Northern Ireland. On the basis of that revised Decision it is my intention to commence section 11 of Public Health (Alcohol) Act and to provide that it will come into operation in early January 2022.