Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

The same tax regimes applies in respect of alcohol products whether sold off-trade or on-trade. There is no variation in that regard. There would be no possibility of distinguishing for VAT purposes between off-licences and public houses. Pricing in respect of alcohol will be a key issue in the recommendations of the steering committee on substance misuse, which is expected to be published shortly. The recommendations contained in that report will form the basis for a Government action plan on alcohol due early next year. The Deputy could perhaps commence the debate here and continue it when the report is published. We might be able to make some progress by approaching it from a different direction.

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