Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The alcohol legislation is a classic example of the cross-Border co-operation in which we are engaged. One of the proposals we are considering is for both Governments to enact legislation to prevent what are known as volume sales of alcohol, where, for example, there might be an offer of 12 bottles for the price of six. Given their proximity, one cannot enact legislation in areas such as this on one side of the Border but not the other.

In addressing issues relating to personal insolvency we were acutely aware of the legislation in place in Northern Ireland, as well as in England, Scotland and Wales. All of these matters are factored into the considerations we apply in determining the best legislative course to follow. That is not to say that on all issues our legislation will be identical to that enacted in the North. However, in the area of criminal justice, for instance, the extent to which we can ensure harmonisation is very important in the fight against criminal gangs.

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