It is important to state that alcohol of itself is not the problem but the abuse of alcohol causes problems. I am a non-drinker but one has only to read the court pages of the local newspaper to see the damaging impact of alcohol on society. Cases come before the courts where alcohol consumption is put forward as a defence . The scale of this is frightening because in almost every case that comes forward, drink or drugs are cited as a mitigating factor. While personal responsibility is important, we must also ensure that those selling drink act in good faith. We need properly trained staff, responsible advertising and marketing as all of these factors have a role to play in addressing the issue of alcohol abuse. Stricter Government regulation is needed in regard to this and that is the reason I welcome this provision.

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