Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. The issue I raise is the failure to commence section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008 which provides that premises selling alcohol and other goods must establish a separate area for the sale of alcohol, including a separate entrance inside the premises. The section has not been commenced.

High levels of alcohol consumption are causing significant health problems. For example, a recent report noted an increase in liver disease among young people. Health problems associated with alcohol consumption will increase unless we tackle the issue of excessive alcohol consumption. One measure would be to provide for a clearly defined and segregated alcohol section in retail units that sell alcohol and other goods. I ask the Minister of State to clarify the reasons section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008 has not been commenced.