Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I move amendment No. 33:

In page 44, between lines 2 and 3, to insert the following:

"(7) A broadcaster shall not broadcast an advertisement, promoting alcoholic beverages, which is aimed at minors. A broadcaster shall not broadcast an advertisement promoting alcoholic beverages before 9pm. Any advertisements for alcoholic beverages shall not encourage immoderate consumption of such products. A broadcaster will ensure prior to transmission that any such advertisements conform with appropriate broadcasting codes.".

The issue here concerns broadcasting and the advertising of alcohol which is of real concern. I oppose censorship whenever I see it. I have found myself in a situation here, however, where I can see the other side of this matter. Sporting organisations deal with this matter on a regular basis. I declare an interest here as I am involved in the management committee and am a director of the GAA. It is fair to say that my colleagues at senior level in the GAA feel that broadcasting of drink advertising should not be allowed and should not be associated with sporting activities. As long as it is permitted, however, people cannot walk away from it because if they do they are turning away from necessary sponsorship money. This is a classic example of an issue on which the Oireachtas must regulate. It is similar to the introduction of employment equality in 1977. The playing pitch must be levelled and the only way to do that is to take on board these matters. Other European countries have done this.

What I propose here is a regulation banning such advertising before 9.00 p.m. Surely it is not unreasonable to ask that there would be no broadcast promotion of alcoholic beverages before that time. Amendment No. 35, in the name of Senator Norris and myself, goes a little beyond that and attaches a fine. I cannot add to the debate because we have all discussed it over the years. However, the manner in which society controls and presents alcohol consumption must be considered. Having reached a certain level of maturity, it would be appropriate for us to ban the advertising of alcohol before 9 p.m., or ban it altogether.