Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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Question 153: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his views on the levels of alcohol abuse and misuse here; his further views that reported levels of alcohol consumption ought to be arrested from a public health, social and economic perspective; the measures he will take to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8674/11]

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether widespread sponsorship of major sporting events by alcohol companies is having an impact on levels of alcohol consumption and alcohol abuse here; if he will review the situation regarding the sponsorship of sporting events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8682/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 153 and 157 together.

The level of alcohol consumption in the population coupled with the predominant pattern of "binge drinking" is a matter of significant concern. The National Substance Misuse Strategy (NSMS) Steering Group has been working to develop proposals and make recommendations to address the problems caused by alcohol misuse in Irish society. The Steering Group was established in December 2009 to develop the alcohol element of the National Substance Misuse Strategy. It will base its recommendations on evidence based measures to deal with the significant public health issue of alcohol in areas such as supply (including price, availability and marketing), prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The NSMS Steering Group will also consider the question of sport sponsorship by the alcohol industry. I expect to receive the Report of the Steering Group later this year.