Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I commend the former Minister of State, Deputy Róisín Shortall, for the leadership she showed in the Department of Health on this issue. I am very pleased that we are joined by Senator Frances Black, who has shown great leadership on this issue in Seanad Éireann. I commend all of the health spokespersons - Deputies Louise O'Reilly, Alan Kelly, Stephen Donnelly and Michael Harty - and others who have been so dedicated to the Bill.

I thank those in the Gallery and watching at home who make up Alcohol Action Ireland and the public health lobby. The alcohol lobby often gets a really loud hearing but these guys showed their resilience in making sure the public health lobby got a hearing as well. We are here today because of their work and dedication.

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