Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Public Health (Alcohol) Act was passed by the House last year and most of us welcome its implementation. Minimum unit pricing was raised during the passage of the Bill and I understand the Minister for Health, Deputy Harris, is intent on bringing the legislation in that regard into force. I refer to the absence of an assembly in the North of Ireland. It was stated during last year's debate that there was a need for back-to-back, simultaneous introduction of minimum unit pricing North and South to avoid an impact on retailers. I call on the Government to ensure it consults with the representative organisations of retailers and vintners on the impact this will have, particularly in the Border region. That is not about the day-to-day shopping of individuals but rather the criminal activity that will ensue if a significant price difference is brought about by the introduction of minimum pricing here but not in the North. I want the Taoiseach to be cognisant of the loss of trade and revenue.

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