Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Norris. I could not agree more that it is inappropriate for Diageo to be involved in a campaign entitled "Stop Out-of-Control Drinking" and it is somewhat cynical, to say the least. His suggestion is a sensible one and would bring some credence and credibility to the campaign. Perhaps he would make his suggestion directly to Diageo because it is positive and would give it some credibility for a campaign which, if it was independent, would be extremely welcome.

I commend Diageo on a recent initiative it has taken, namely, to put information on calories on all of its beverages. We have an absurd situation in this country whereby a food producer must put every detail known to man or woman about the food it produces on its labels. I am in favour of this, not least the information on calories and everything else, but we can consume drinks without knowing what is in them. The fact that calories would be shown on Diageo's products is very welcome and I hope other drinks companies would follow its lead. It is one very small measure which will help with the obesity crisis in Ireland. Nonetheless, it has been shown to have a significant effect in other jurisdictions.

I also join Senator Coghlan in acknowledging the tremendous achievement of the men's and women's Irish rugby teams at the weekend. It gives us a great lift and I congratulate all involved.