Paddy Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome the Spanish ambassador to the Chamber. I join the Senators who yesterday paid tribute to the families, friends and neighbours of the people of Creeslough following the tragic loss of ten human lives. I extend the sympathies and condolences of the House to them on their tragic loss. What happened was unbelievable.

I raise an issue in regard to some organisations that are anti-drink. They express reservations about Drinkaware, arguing that the organisation should have no influence on the promotion of education for people in regard to anti-drinking because it is funded by the drinks companies. Some of the organisations in question are funded by the taxpayer and taxes are collected from drink and cigarettes. This is a case of double standards. Any organisation that can help to prevent excessive drinking and the abuse of drink and drugs is to be welcomed. I welcome anything that Drinkaware does in promoting an anti-drinking and anti-drugs message. It is a bit rich of organisations to complain about those who are doing great work because they are funded by drinks companies when the organisations in question are themselves funded by the taxpayer and money collected from taxes paid through drink and cigarettes.