Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

May I come back in to comment on one or two things that were said?

To respond to Deputy Durkan, it is a matter of a change of culture and a change in people's attitude to the way in which the consumption of alcohol happens in this country. As I said previously, the Bill represents the very first time in this country that we have been at this stage. I understand the circumstances surrounding the use of alcohol and other substances, particularly in respect of the other hat I wear as Minister of State with responsibility for the national drugs strategy. I understand the combination of alcohol and drugs and what it can do. There are provisions within the Bill concerning children and sporting or track and field events, and even swimming pools, such that children cannot be exposed to alcohol advertising. We are taking a real step in the right direction with this Bill. In the future I am sure there will be other opportunities for Deputies from all sides to come back again on the Bill. As I said, this is a matter of changing a culture and looking at how we advertise. Most of all, it is a matter of informing young adults and younger children in particular about the health issues surrounding the consumption of alcohol. The Bill is a very first step in the right direction. It might not tick all the boxes, but we are where we are, and it is time we approached the matter in a cohesive manner whereby we have co-operation between people to progress the Bill.