Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State said we must move on regardless of Brexit. That is all well and good but Brexit will have and is having a huge effect on the part of the country I come from, which is south Ulster and the other Border counties. The SuperValus and Centras of this country might not be regarded as small operators but they operate as franchises. They own the franchise and if that franchise goes down, SuperValu and Centra remain but the franchisees and their families as well as their employees and their families are gone so it is important that we take our time here and listen to what Members of this House have to say. As a result of the drop in the value of sterling, Brexit is crucifying small operators in the Border and midlands area. In principle, I agree with almost the entire Bill but there are difficulties with it and it is up to us to point them out to the Minister of State and the House.

In respect of advertising, I would like to hear what proposals are in this legislation to restrict advertising on YouTube, Facebook and other social media outlets because I do not see any. It is alright to prevent the national broadcaster and other broadcasters from having alcohol advertisements but what about young people because they are the ones we need to get at before they start on alcohol? We did this in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s in respect of tobacco and it worked. I smoked when I was 15 years of age. My daughter would think it was crazy to smoke because of legislation and education and this is vitally important. Let us take our time on this and get it right. While some people might think it is only the Seanad, during my 14 and a half years in this Oireachtas, the best pieces of legislation have come from this House. Very few mistakes have been made in this House so, with respect, the Minister of State should respect this House. We will take whatever time it takes but let us get it right and let everybody's opinion be listened to.

Amendment agreed to.