Nicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for Health his plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing; his views on the impact of the availability of cheap alcohol in relation and anti social behaviour (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33764/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the National Substance Misuse Strategy, was published earlier this year. It contained many recommendations and policy options in relation to tackling the over-consumption of alcohol in Ireland. Among the suggested options was the introduction of minimum pricing.

A proposal on this and other alcohol-related issues will go to Government shortly. It will include a strong recommendation on the introduction of minimum pricing to deal with the problems associated with low-priced alcohol. Because of EU competition law, there are significant legal hurdles to be cleared before minimum pricing can be introduced. However, considerable work has already been undertaken by my Department to address these legal concerns.

If approved by Cabinet, legislation will be introduced later in the year.