Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 82: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce the ban on below cost selling of alcohol; the estimated financial loss to the Exchequer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24438/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Below-cost selling of alcohol was one of the areas examined by the Government Alcohol Advisory Group (GAAG) in 2008. Due to the complexity of the pricing structures and incentives in operation in this area, the Group was unable within the time available to it to establish any standard costs for the purpose of prohibiting below-cost sales of alcohol products. However, I understand that a Steering Group, which is currently operating under the aegis of the Department of Health, is developing proposals on alcohol for inclusion in the National Substance Misuse Strategy. The Group has been examining a range of issues relating to alcohol availability and pricing and is due to submit its Report, which will include policy recommendations, to Government later this year.