Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I understand the sale of alcohol Bill to reform the alcohol licensing system and extend licensing hours for bars and restaurants has been in the works for a while now. The Government initially indicated the Bill would be introduced before the summer recess. However, the Taoiseach, Deputy Harris, recently expressed scepticism about meeting the summer deadline, citing the need for careful consideration and to avoid unintended consequences. During pre-legislative scrutiny of the Bill at the Joint Committee on Justice, it was advised that a health impact assessment of the legislation should be made. It has been called for by almost 80 NGOs and advocates. Will the Tánaiste clarify that the sale of alcohol Bill will not be published before the summer recess? Will the Government make a commitment to carry out a health impact assessment of the legislation, as advised, before it comes before the House?

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