Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Shannon. He is a breath of fresh air at last. I will refer to the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill because Dr. Shannon referred to it, and I thank him for that. At last, I feel that somebody else is being a voice for children and families who have been impacted and devastated by alcohol and Ireland's unhealthy relationship with alcohol.

To refer back to the data protection legislation, we must highlight the way young people are targeted by certain industries such as the alcohol, gambling and sex industries. It is shocking. The subliminal messages being sent to children in this area are a huge concern. It is very worrying, particularly with regard to the mental health issue. I wish to highlight, in particular, the importance of the bullying that takes place and the vulnerability of young children to that. I utterly support what Dr. Shannon said today. There is no doubt that everything he said should be included in this legislation. However, part of me believes there should be separate legislation relating to children and data protection. It is a minefield when one thinks about it. What Dr. Shannon said today demonstrates that fact. There are so many different areas where children need 100% protection.

I support all aspects of what Dr. Shannon said. I hope we will be able to include all of his recommendations in the legislation. I certainly will support that. I appreciate Dr. Shannon's support on the alcohol issue in this country, because I feel very frustrated. We are aware of the issues with the lobbying, the power of the industry and what it is doing to block the legislation to protect its profits, without any consideration for families, children and those who have issues with alcohol. It is a public health issue and it must be addressed. Profits should not be put before public health. I hope that the Government and the Opposition will support that legislation but, unfortunately, that is not happening and it is being blocked. I thank Dr. Shannon and I look forward to working with him in the future. I hope we can connect in the work both of us do in being the voice for those who do not have a voice.