Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy is aware, the Minister of State, Deputy Róisín Shortall, and the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Alan Shatter, are dealing with aspects of the alcohol issue. As the previous sub-committee meeting on social policy there was a detailed discussion on the serious issues involved. The sub-committee mandated the Minister of State to bring her recommendations to the committee. The next meeting will be entirely devoted to the alcohol issue, including the aspects the Minister is dealing with, including the separation of alcohol in retail outlets and a number of other matters. When the sub-committee concludes its review of the presentations to be made by the Minister of State and the Minister, it will be brought to the Government and we will act on the matter as speedily as possible. As the Deputy is aware, a number of serious matters are involved. I made the point to someone yesterday that every night of the week 2,000 hospital beds were occupied by people who were out of their minds on drink or with drink-related problems.

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