Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

I am delighted with the response and the fact that there will be more co-operation. I forgot to commend all those involved in the decision to bring alcohol under the substance misuse strategy, which will replace the national drugs strategy. It will play a part in dealing with the people and the families who suffer the consequences of alcohol abuse. It will have major implications in our community.

I would like more information on the labelling of alcohol products. We were moving towards drink labelling in the same way as we have food labelling. As someone who is permanently on a diet, I can choose to have a high calorie sandwich or meal because it is written on the product, but I cannot choose to have a high calorie or low calorie alcoholic drink. I am aware of one brand, which I will not advertise, which calls itself "Light". It is not light in alcohol content but in calorie content. How far advanced is the issue of alcohol labelling? Will the Minister of State promote the concept of making people aware of healthier options, even when consuming alcohol? If she does not have that information to hand, I will be happy to get it at a later date.