Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 279: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider introducing a requirement for a national responsible trading certificate following a dedicated training programme for all alcohol retailers and their staff before an alcohol licence or an off-licence permit can be renewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35925/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The position is that while a certain amount of server training is provided in both the on-trade and the off-trade sectors, there are no statutory training standards or training requirements for staff involved in the sale of alcohol at present.

The Steering Group Report on a National Substance Misuse Strategy, which was published earlier this year, contains many recommendations and policy options in relation to regulating and controlling the supply of alcohol including a recommendation that the Department of Health establish standards for server training programmes in the on-trade and off-trade sectors. I understand that this recommendation will be considered as part of the development of an Action Plan for Alcohol by the Department of Health and proposals on alcohol-related issues will go to Government shortly.

The Report also recommends that the participation by licensees and staff in such programmes should be a condition of the licensing process. I will consider this recommendation in the context of the forthcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.