Joe Higgins (Dublin West, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

There is a huge problem in this country with alcohol abuse and addiction. I do not think higher excise duty is the answer, just as I do not think higher excise duty on cigarettes is the answer. I vote against the latter in every budget because it is a cheap shot by Governments to raise more money on the basis of health concerns. However, the issue will have to be addressed and the question of availability undoubtedly arises. Everywhere one turns alcohol is almost knocking one down. The idea of a complete ban on alcohol advertisements and anything that promotes alcohol as seductive, sexy or beneficial should be considered.

Mr. McCabe represents the smaller businesses, as opposed to the big guys who need to be taken down to size. However, the political will to do this is lacking. Small farmers are suffering in the same way. They are being hammered by the prices the multiples are paying at the farm gate. When one goes to the shop, one sees what one's produce costs. This problem requires action of a type in which the current political establishment is not going to engage.