Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 298: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will support the re-introduction of a ban on below cost selling of alcohol products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9282/12]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Since the repeal of the Restrictive Practices legislation, no statutory basis exists for me, as Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, to make a minimum pricing order.

I am aware of concerns raised about the high level of consumption of alcohol and the consequential detrimental effects caused to individuals and to society in general. In that regard, I note the recent publication of the Steering Group Report on a National Substance Misuse Strategy. Government will consider, in due course, how best to respond to that report.