Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is something I welcome. It lessens some of the negative health impacts we are trying to address because it reduces the consumption levels of many of these drinks. It proves the merit of what we are trying to do. We are introducing this measure. It is one of the few measures on which I have been crystal clear, given it was flagged in last year's budget in anticipation of drink manufacturers assessing how they want to manufacture and supply these drinks. That process has been under way during the past year and is welcome. From my engagement with the Department of Health, though, it contends that we still have significant health issues due to the overconsumption of these drinks.