Minister for Health signs 23 sections of the Public Health Alcohol Bill into effect
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, has signed the order to commence 23 sections of the Public Health Alcohol Bill into operation. The legislation, which was passed overwhelmingly by the Oireachtas last month, legislates for alcohol as a public health priority.
From 12th November 2019:
From 12 November 2020, in mixed retail outlets alcohol products and advertising are confined to one of the following:
In addition alcohol products can be contained but not be visible in a unit behind the counter.
From 12 November 2021:
Minister Harris said:
“This is the first time in the history of our State that we have endeavored to use public health legislation to address issues in respect of alcohol. It is, therefore, a groundbreaking measure."
“For the very first time in our history, we are legislating for alcohol as it affects our health and it is right and proper that we do so."
“We know that we have a relationship with alcohol in this country that is not good, damages our health, harms our communities and harms many families. The measures in this Bill will make a real difference to changing the culture of drinking in Ireland over a period of time.”
ENDS
Minimum unit pricing, which is a key component of the Bill, requires a separate Government decision.
The introduction of labels will have to be notified at EU level before its commencement. There will be a three-year lead in after it has been commenced.